Egypt Promotes Investment Climate Experience at Global Congress

Egypt's Director Executive of the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI), Dr. Mohamed Awad, participated in a plenary session of the 30th World Investment Congress (WIC30) in Geneva, Switzerland. The event, organized by the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA), focused on "Investing in Inclusive Value Chains." Dr. Awad showcased Egypt's experience in integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into its investment ecosystem.

Dr. Awad highlighted that incorporating ESG criteria is crucial for enhancing company competitiveness, attracting investments, and promoting sustainable growth. Citing data from the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, he noted that public "green" investments in Egypt have increased significantly. The share of public "green" investments rose from 15% of total public investments in the 2020/2021 fiscal year to 55% in the 2025/2026 fiscal year.

The GAFI has established a dedicated department for sustainability to support companies in developing social responsibility and sustainable development strategies. This department encourages businesses to allocate a portion of their profits to societal initiatives and manages awards for social responsibility and sustainability. It also prepares the Authority's reports on sustainability and carbon footprint.

Dr. Awad emphasized the vital role of investment zones and free zones in strengthening competitive and complete value chains. These zones connect local producers to global markets, enhancing the integration of local businesses into global value chains. He cited a report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), which found that foreign companies operating in Egypt rely on local suppliers for 63.6% of their production inputs.

This rate of local supplier usage is higher than the 49.1% in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and 45.4% in OECD member countries. The "Egypt Launches into Export" initiative, launched by the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade, aims to increase the competitiveness of Egyptian exporters and facilitate access to foreign markets.

The initiative supports the integration of local businesses into global value chains. The World Investment Congress session included participation from several international officials and experts, including Scipion Oliveira Gomes, Director of the Country Programmes Division at the International Trade Centre in Geneva.

The Egyptian government's efforts to promote sustainable investments and enhance the business environment are part of its strategy to attract more foreign investment and stimulate economic growth. By highlighting its experience in integrating ESG criteria and promoting sustainable practices, Egypt aims to position itself as an attractive destination for investors seeking to support sustainable development.

Key points

• Egypt's GAFI highlights the country's experience in integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into its investment ecosystem.