Factories will be able to submit requests to the Industrial Development Authority (IDA) to start manufacturing fabric face masks, according to Minister of Trade and Industry Nevine Gamea. Gamea noted that the IDA will take over procedures as soon as possible to ensure operations begin to meet local market needs for this type of face mask. It comes in light of the Cabinet decision to implement plans to co-exist with the coronavirus (COVID-19) starting in June. The minister added that supervisory agencies affiliated to the Ministry of Trade and Industry will do periodic inspections of factories producing the cloth masks. The inspections will ensure their commitment to applying the requirements and quality standards adopted by the ministry. IDA Head Magdy Ghazi said the authority will receive requests from factories wishing to produce cloth masks added with approvals to be granted within 24 hours. These will be given to establishments that have a production line to manufacture ready-made clothes and have the required documents ready. Ghazi said, "For establishments wishing to enter this field, they need to submit an application to the IDA, provided that the authority makes necessary inspections and then issues approval." He stressed that companies wishing to obtain approval need to submit a number of documents. These include a valid operating licence and industrial and commercial records, as well as a valid tax card and proof of membership with the Federation of Egyptian Industries (FEI). On Friday, the Ministry of Trade and Industry completed preparations for testing requirements and methods for fabric masks that have been approved by the Ministry of Health. These requirements were circulated to spinning, textiles, and ready-made clothes factories for the production processes, and to enable manufacturing of masks that ensure safety and security for citizens. Gamea has confirmed that these types of masks, which are reasonably priced, can be used for extended periods.
