MSMEDA, Supply Ministry expand Carry On retail chain support

Egypt’s Medium, Small, and Micro Enterprise Development Agency (MSMEDA), in cooperation with the Ministry of Supply and Internal Trade, is supporting existing retail outlets and new entrants seeking to join the government retail chain Carry On. The move comes as part of efforts to expand access to essential goods nationwide.

MSMEDA Chief Executive Basil Rahmy said the Carry On outlets will be based on jointly prepared feasibility studies with the Ministry of Supply, ensuring sustainability and unified operational standards to improve service quality and efficiency.

The initiative forms part of a cooperation protocol to launch Egypt’s first government-owned retail chain under the Carry On brand, aimed at delivering essential goods and services through a modern, standardised operating system.

Rahmy said MSMEDA will support outlets across governorates, study new locations in underserved areas, and assess franchise-based financing options to support expansion. He added that the agency will also provide free training in project management and operations, alongside access to one-stop-shop services and benefits under MSMEDA Law No. 152 of 2020 and the Tax Incentives and Facilitation Law No. 6 of 2025.

He noted that feasibility studies will guide implementation to ensure consistency, competitiveness, and improved service delivery under unified standards.

The Carry On chain targets existing retail outlet operators, including grocery distributors, Takaful outlets, and mobile vendors seeking to upgrade or expand, with MSMEDA providing financial and non-financial support to ensure business continuity and growth.

A joint committee has been formed under the cooperation protocol between MSMEDA and the Ministry of Supply and Internal Trade to set procedures for joining the Carry On brand and prepare the required administrative framework.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English