Egypt is pushing to deepen economic and investment ties with the United Arab Emirates, as it negotiates a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) aimed at unlocking new trade and industrial opportunities, Investment Minister Hassan El-Khatib said Thursday. Speaking at EMIR's conference in Dubai, the minister addressed over 200 corporate executives, pitching Egypt's reform agenda and growing investor appeal. Egypt is committed to driving industrial and investment integration with the UAE to serve both our markets and broader regional demand, he said. Minister El-Khatib pointed to recent macroeconomic reforms in Egypt, including adjustments in monetary, fiscal, and trade policies designed to streamline business procedures and attract foreign direct investment. He highlighted Egypt's competitive advantages—such as a large domestic consumer base, low labour costs, and strategic access to African, Arab, and European markets through multiple trade agreements. Cairo is aiming to significantly expand the role of the private sector in the economy, Minister El-Khatib said, noting that key investment targets include manufacturing, renewable energy, semiconductors, agriculture, and digital infrastructure. He also cited the Sovereign Fund of Egypt (TSFE) as a central pillar of the government's strategy to unlock state assets and deepen public-private partnerships, in line with the state's ownership policy. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
