Egypt Unveils New FDI Promotion Strategy Targeting 16 Economic Sectors, Investment Minister Says
Egypt is preparing a new strategy to promote foreign direct investment across 16 promising economic sectors, aiming to attract international capital, deepen local manufacturing, increase exports and strengthen the integration of Egyptian companies into global value chains, Investment and Foreign Trade Minister Mohamed Farid announced.
The announcement came during a meeting organized by international law firm DLA Piper in Washington, D.C., on the sidelines of Farid's participation in the B20 USA 2026 Business Summit.
The meeting brought together representatives of major international companies, investment institutions and the global business community, alongside Planning and Economic Development Minister Ahmed Rostom, Egypt's Ambassador to the United States Mohamed El Molla, and DLA Piper partner and Head of the Middle East Initiative Ehab El-Senbaty.
Discussions covered developments in Egypt's investment climate, ongoing government reforms to facilitate business operations and investment opportunities across priority economic sectors.
16 Priority Sectors Identified to Attract Foreign Capital
Farid explained that the new foreign direct investment promotion strategy focuses on 16 priority economic sectors.
These include pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, automotive manufacturing, electronics, textiles and ready-made garments, chemicals, food industries, technology services, tourism and logistics, among other promising activities.
The strategy aims to direct investment promotion efforts toward opportunities with strong potential to attract foreign capital, increase domestic production capacity, expand Egyptian exports and strengthen local companies' participation in global value chains.
Government Reforms Aim to Reduce Business Costs
The minister highlighted the government's continued implementation of legislative and institutional reforms designed to address practical challenges facing investors.
These measures focus on simplifying administrative procedures, reducing the cost of doing business and improving coordination among government entities.
According to Farid, the reforms are intended to establish a more efficient, transparent and competitive investment environment that encourages domestic and international investors to expand their operations and launch new projects in Egypt.
Digital Platform for Corporate Capital Increase Procedures Nears Launch
As part of the government's digital transformation efforts, Farid revealed that the launch of the "Rahlat El-Mahdar" platform is approaching.
The platform is designed to streamline procedures related to corporate capital increases and digitally connect the relevant authorities.
It will also standardize the approval processes for general assembly and board of directors meeting minutes, helping companies reduce processing times and complete regulatory requirements more efficiently.
The initiative forms part of a broader government approach to digitizing investment services and redesigning procedures throughout the investor journey.
Expansion of Investment and Industrial Zones Across Governorates
The meeting also reviewed government efforts to expand investment and industrial zones across Egypt's governorates and improve the mechanisms through which investment opportunities are made available.
These initiatives aim to direct capital toward new geographic areas, strengthen integration between production and service activities, create additional employment opportunities and encourage investment projects beyond traditional economic centers.
Foreign Trade Reforms Target Stronger Export Performance
Farid also discussed plans to improve Egypt's foreign trade system through streamlined customs procedures, expanded digital services for exporters and greater access for Egyptian products to international markets.
The measures are intended to strengthen the competitiveness of Egyptian exports, increase trade flows and improve the efficiency of foreign trade operations.
Private Sector Participation Remains Central to Economic Growth
The minister stressed that expanding the private sector's contribution to economic activity remains a central priority of the government's current economic agenda.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining direct engagement with investors and business representatives to identify their concerns, understand their expectations and address obstacles affecting their operations.
Farid added that the government seeks to translate ongoing institutional and legislative reforms into tangible investment opportunities and operating projects that support production, employment and exports.
He concluded that digitizing services, simplifying procedures and strengthening private sector participation are essential to building a more competitive investment environment and attracting further domestic and foreign investment.
