Egypt’s investment, finance ministers showcase reforms to boost private sector, FDI

Egypt’s Investment and Foreign Trade Minister Hassan El-Khatib and Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk met with private sector representatives on Tuesday to discuss reforms aimed at improving the business climate and aligning government policies with investor priorities.

El-Khatib said the government is conducting its first comprehensive review of non-tax financial burdens on businesses and is promoting targeted opportunities under Egypt’s 2025–2030 foreign direct investment (FDI) strategy. He highlighted 29 joint measures with the finance ministry to reduce customs clearance time and costs, with a two-day target already achieved and plans to cut it further to hours.

The minister also noted progress in digital transformation, with the licensing platform now hosting 389 licences and a new platform for economic entities under development. He said Egypt has contributed to the World Bank’s Business Ready (B-Ready) reform matrix through 10 specialised working groups, holding 36 sessions from April to August with strong private sector participation.

El-Khatib stressed the need for foreign trade reforms, noting that while 93 per cent of imports are essential goods, exports make up less than 10 per cent of GDP. The reforms focus on three pillars: legislative and regulatory frameworks, digital transformation, and operational efficiency of services, ahead of Egypt’s participation in the 2026 edition of the report covering 180 countries.

Kouchouk said the government is advancing comprehensive port development and preparing a new 25-measure tax reform package. He added that amendments to the customs law will simplify procedures and shorten clearance times. He also emphasised the government’s commitment to transparency, with draft laws and regulations to be opened for consultation with the business community.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

Subediting: Y.Yasser