Egypt is seeking to replicate Hong Kong's financial zone success as it pushes ahead with plans to transform itself into a regional hub for investment and fund management, the country's investment authority said Wednesday. Hossam Heiba, CEO of Egypt's General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI), met with Alpha Lau, Director-General of Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), in Cairo to discuss Hong Kong's experience in developing central financial districts that have become Asia's top destination for wealth management and private funds. "The new legislation we're preparing for central financial and business zones is designed to create an enabling environment for fund managers, institutional investors, and global firms," Heiba said. "We want Egypt to be the gateway to Africa and the Middle East." The proposed zones will focus on attracting high-efficiency, export-driven investment across strategic sectors such as renewable energy, automotive, textiles, electronics, pharmaceuticals, logistics, health, and education, Heiba added. He also pointed to Egypt's large domestic market and deep talent pool as key advantages in driving long-term capital flows. Hong Kong's Lau noted that her city acts as China's global financial gateway, offering tax-friendly regimes, streamlined investment regulations, and trade agreements that have made it a launchpad for outbound Chinese capital and inbound foreign investment. Chinese companies are actively exploring Egyptian opportunities through Hong Kong-based funds, Lau said, citing Egypt's geographic reach and export access to African, Arab, and European markets. Invest Hong Kong opened an office in Cairo last year to support expanding Chinese investments into North Africa. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
