Egypt has unveiled on Tuesday its National Strategy for Handicrafts (2025–2030), with the aim of positioning the country as a global hub for handmade goods by boosting exports, preserving heritage, and supporting job creation. The strategy was reviewed Tuesday in a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly in New Alamein City. The plan targets $600 million in exports by 2030, 70 per cent market share for handmade products domestically, 120,000 new jobs, a 10 per cent annual rise in formalised craft businesses, and the development of 15 natural craft clusters. Prime Minister Madbouly stressed the importance of preserving traditional crafts and called for a unified national approach. The Ministry of Social Solidarity and the MSMEDA were assigned to lead coordination, working with other entities to align efforts. According to a Cabinet statement, the strategy responds to global market shifts, sustainability standards, and the need for clear implementation plans. It includes 32 action plans covering market access, cluster development, and sector infrastructure. Key implementation steps include establishing a National Council for Handicrafts, a Handicraft Design and Export Centre, legal reforms, and improved coordination. The strategy also maps out Egypt's full value chain—from inputs and production to logistics, marketing, and sales—identifying current challenges and solutions. International best practices were reviewed, highlighting the role of strong governance, phased development, effective marketing, support for artisan identities, and innovation. Prime Minister Madbouly approved the implementation roadmap and ordered the immediate formation of necessary councils, with master artisans to be included in the Board of Trustees under the new national council. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: Y.Yasser
