Egypt”s Industry Ministry Issues Service Procedures for Factories Outside Industrial Zones
Egypt's Ministry of Industry has announced new procedures governing the provision of services to industrial facilities located outside designated industrial zones, in implementation of Ministerial Decree No. 95 of 2026 aimed at regulating the licensing and operation of such establishments.
The move is part of the government's broader efforts to streamline industrial procedures and integrate more facilities into the formal economy, while ensuring compliance with environmental and urban planning requirements.
Under the decree, industrial activities are generally prohibited outside officially designated industrial zones. However, several activities are exempted and may operate within approved urban boundaries and built-up areas, subject to obtaining the necessary approvals and meeting the conditions set by the Industrial Development Authority (IDA).
The new framework significantly expands the list of industrial activities permitted within standalone buildings in urban areas, increasing the number of eligible activities from 17 to 65. The measure is expected to provide greater opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises and support local manufacturing growth.
The regulations also preserve the legal status of existing licensed facilities established before the decree came into force. These businesses will be allowed to expand their current activities or add other approved industrial operations within the boundaries of their existing premises, provided they comply with the applicable regulations.
The Industrial Development Authority will be responsible for implementing the procedures and periodically reviewing the list of approved activities in line with market needs and the state's strategy to deepen local manufacturing and promote sustainable industrial development.
The ministry said the new procedures are designed to provide clearer regulatory mechanisms for investors and improve access to industrial services for facilities operating outside traditional industrial zones.