Egypt to pilot unified smart card for subsidy distribution in Port Said

Egypt is preparing to launch a unified smart card system to replace existing subsidy cards, with a pilot phase already underway in Port Said Governorate.

During a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly to review the progress of the subsidy system and its governance measures, Minister of Supply and Internal Trade Sherif Farouk announced that 42,000 out of 171,000 eligible cardholders in the governorate have already received their new cards.

This initiative forms part of the government’s broader efforts to digitise public services, enhance transparency, and ensure that subsidies are directed to eligible recipients.

Farouk explained that the smart card will enable beneficiaries to access rationed goods and other services through a secure, integrated system that complies with cybersecurity standards. He added that the system will also support the updating of the national database to accurately reflect actual beneficiaries, promote social justice, and allow for the inclusion of new eligible citizens. The government intends to expand the system nationwide following the Port Said trial.

Prime Minister Madbouly, for his part, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving subsidy governance, strengthening oversight, reducing waste, and ensuring the consistent availability of essential goods for targeted groups.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
Subediting: M. S. Salama