Ahmed Galal: Banking Finance Focuses on Developing Local Production and Boosting Export Capabilities
Dr. Ahmed Galal, CEO and Managing Director of the Export Development Bank of Egypt (EBank), emphasized that banking finance extends beyond merely providing liquidity to serve as a primary driver for developing national industry and enhancing its competitiveness in global markets. Speaking during his chairmanship of the second session at the 20th "People and Banks" conference—held under the auspices of the Central Bank of Egypt under the theme "Digitalization.. Finance.. Growth"—he explained that maximizing benefits requires tailoring financial solutions to precisely match the nature of the business and its operational and investment needs.
Strengthening Local Manufacturing and Import Substitution
Galal stressed the importance of directing finance toward automating production lines and modernizing technology, which helps reduce costs and improve final product quality. He also highlighted the role of financing component and production input manufacturers to lessen reliance on imports and reinforce national supply chains. In this context, EBank focuses on offering multi-tenor credit facilities that directly support export-oriented industries and import substitution projects.
Integrated Tools to Support the Export Cycle
Galal pointed out that exporting companies require financial coverage across all stages of the export process—from preparation to collection. EBank provides comprehensive trade finance solutions, including pre- and post-shipment financing, export receivables discounting, structured trade finance, standard banking services, and financing against Export Development Fund receivables. Additionally, the bank supports company readiness via "EBank Export Club" programs, covering costs for international conformity certificates, participation in trade fairs, and freight transport.
Syndicated Loans and Major Project Financing
Galal shed light on the role of syndicated loans in pooling banks' financial capabilities and distributing risk to fund mega-projects. He affirmed that the success of such projects relies on meticulous financial structuring that considers cash flows, grace periods, and repayment schedules aligned with execution phases, noting that the bank provides these loans and long-term facilities to support capital expenditure and working capital.
