Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk said the Egyptian economy offers a wide range of diverse, attractive, and increasingly competitive investment opportunities, particularly in manufacturing and export-oriented activities. He noted that the business climate is steadily improving and invited local and international partners to expand their investments in Egypt. Speaking at a meeting with members of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Kouchouk said the government is targeting investment across productive, export-led and technology-driven sectors, with the aim of positioning Egypt as a regional hub for production and exports. He added that the Ministry is working to reduce the debt of budgetary entities to below 80% of GDP by June 2026, noting that a clearly defined and more ambitious strategy is underway to improve government debt indicators. This strategy, he explained, is based on innovative financing tools and strengthened coordination among state institutions. Kouchouk highlighted the private sector's proven capacity for competitiveness and its leading role in driving economic momentum. He pointed to a 73% increase in private investment last year, reflecting the injection of billions of Egyptian pounds into productive projects. "We have chosen a path based on trust and partnership with the tax community, and we are continuing to simplify procedures to encourage voluntary compliance," he said. He noted that a 35% increase in tax revenues last year was achieved without imposing new burdens, reflecting stronger economic activity and a positive response from the private sector. The Minister stressed that the government is working to create additional fiscal space to strengthen social protection, increase allocations for human development, expand social spending, and direct resources to key sectors such as healthcare and the treatment of critical cases. "I would like to thank the private sector. Together, we are moving in the right direction to enhance the competitiveness of our economy," Kouchouk concluded. For his part, Eric Chevallier, the French Ambassador to Egypt, said ongoing tax and customs reforms are reinforcing a climate of trust and partnership with international investors. He noted that the Egyptian economy is moving in a positive direction, with improving growth and declining inflation, and highlighted government support for expanding the global reach of Egyptian exports. Meanwhile, Emad El-Sonbaty, Chairman of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Egypt, expressed his appreciation to the Minister for his commitment to maintaining dialogue with the French business community as part of wider efforts to strengthen partnerships with local and foreign investors. El-Sonbaty said the business community is looking forward to greater clarity and stability in fiscal and tax policy, continued simplification of administrative procedures, accelerated digital transformation, and the preservation of institutionalised dialogue with the private sector. He added that these measures are essential to improving the investment climate, boosting competitiveness and achieving sustainable economic growth.
