Egypt’s MSMEDA boosts lending support for Upper Egypt in 2025

Egypt’s Medium, Small, and Micro Enterprise Development Agency (MSMEDA) increased its direct lending share to 21 per cent in 2025, up from 11 per cent the previous year, with Upper Egypt receiving 55 per cent of total financing. The agency also expanded funding for medium-sized enterprises to 11 per cent, compared to just 3 per cent in 2024 and 0.2 per cent in 2023, reflecting a sharp upward trend in its development and job creation impact.

The data was presented by MSMEDA CEO Basil Rahmi during a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly on Sunday to review the agency’s latest performance and strategic priorities. Rahmi said 24 per cent of the funding went to productive sectors such as agriculture, industry, and livestock, while governance and cost-efficiency reforms since 2023 have enhanced financial sustainability.

The meeting also addressed new initiatives to support exporters and expand MSMEDA’s client base, with Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk urging stronger partnerships with international donors and greater focus on entrepreneurship-led growth.

During the meeting, Planning Minister Rania Al-Mashat highlighted ongoing coordination with global financial institutions and called for better alignment between MSMEDA and other entities hosting similar exhibitions.

Preparations are underway for the seventh edition of the Torathna (Our Heritage) exhibition in early October, with around 1,200 exhibitors expected—at least 30 per cent of whom will be new participants. Organisers aim to increase women’s participation and include more projects from the formal sector. The 2024 edition attracted over 150,000 visitors, with women making up 74 per cent of participants.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

Subediting: M. S. Salama