Egypt outlines consumer protection strategy at UN conference

Egypt’s Minister of Supply and Internal Trade, Sherif Farouk, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to consumer protection and food security during the opening session of the Ninth United Nations Conference on Competition and Consumer Protection, held in Geneva from July 7 to 11, 2025.

Essential goods sufficient for over six months

Farouk outlined Egypt’s integrated approach aligned with UN guidelines, emphasising efforts to strengthen the social safety net and economic stability. He highlighted a key initiative: maintaining a strategic reserve of essential goods sufficient for over six months despite global supply disruptions.

He also pointed to the development of smart grain silos linked to electronic monitoring systems, diversification of supply sources, and partnerships with FAO and WFP to support local production and connect farmers to markets.

Digital oversight

On digital oversight, Farouk presented tools such as an AI-based central platform to track commodity flows and stock levels, a price radar app for citizens, and a new system to digitally monitor bakeries. Composite indicators have also been introduced to evaluate market efficiency and policy impact.

The minister addressed reforms to Egypt’s subsidy system, aiming to enhance fairness and effectiveness, supported by stronger regulatory roles and cooperation with development partners in capacity building.

Farouk concluded by stressing Egypt’s commitment to implementing the UN guidelines and benefiting from UNCTAD’s expert platform to adopt global best practices that support consumer rights and sustainable development goals.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

Subediting: M. S. Salama