Egypt has stepped up inspections under its new labour law, aiming to formalise employment practices and ensure compliance with regulations on foreign workers. The ministry of labour said on Tuesday that 201 violation reports were issued in the Red Sea governorate during the first week of enforcement, including penalties exceeding 20 million Egyptian pounds ($416,663) for companies employing foreign staff without proper permits. Labour Minister Mohamed Gobran said inspections would be expanded nationwide under a central committee reporting directly to him, with daily reports submitted to monitor foreign work permits. The initial phase focuses on permits for foreign employees, followed by checks on minimum wage compliance, employment contracts, and dispute resolution. The measures form part of a broader push to create a more transparent and predictable labour market, aligning with Egypt's Vision 2030 goals of social justice and improved working conditions. Gobran emphasised that strict enforcement is essential to protect workers and maintain a balanced relationship between employers and employees. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English