Egypt's Center for Information and Decision Support, affiliated with the Cabinet, recently organized a workshop to discuss the national economic transformation program. The event, which took place on October 7, was part of a series of preparatory workshops for the "Egypt Forum 2026," scheduled to occur from October 19 to 24. The workshop brought together experts and representatives from various think tanks to share their insights and recommendations on the program.
The workshop focused on the features of the new national economic program for 2027-2030, considering the expiration of the current program with the International Monetary Fund. Participants discussed the need for a new phase that builds on previous achievements, aiming to enhance sustainable growth, increase productivity and competitiveness, and boost production, exports, and employment. The private sector is expected to play a leading role in driving growth.
The discussions centered around the priorities of the new economic program, including promoting the role of the private sector, identifying sectors with high growth potential, and determining reform priorities. Experts also addressed challenges related to program implementation, such as distributing responsibilities among concerned parties, linking procedures and projects to funding sources, and addressing issues like debt, foreign currency, energy, and investment.
Dr. Fakhri Al-Faqri, a professor of economics at Cairo University, highlighted Egypt's clear vision for the future and ongoing national programs in collaboration with the International Monetary Fund. He emphasized the need to increase foreign direct investment and improve the investment climate. Dr. Yumn Al-Hamaki, a professor of economics at Ain Shams University, stressed the importance of basing economic policies on accurate data and monitoring reality to ensure effective interventions.
Dr. Omar Al-Shneiti, an economic expert, discussed the importance of determining the features of economic policy in the post-IMF program phase, including exchange rate flexibility and managing short-term capital flows. He also emphasized the need for a clear role for the state in economic activities and defining responsibilities to enhance transparency and investment decision-making.
Other participants, including Dr. Amani Fakher, Dr. Sherine Al-Shawarbi, and Ambassador Omar Abu Aish, shared their insights on various aspects of the economic transformation program. They emphasized the importance of communication with citizens, explaining economic policies and goals, and promoting export-led growth. They also highlighted the need for a clear vision for economic transformation, stability, and predictability in economic policies to boost private sector confidence.
The workshop's outcomes will contribute to the "Egypt Forum 2026," which aims to foster a comprehensive discussion on Egypt's economic future. The forum will bring together various stakeholders to discuss the country's economic challenges and opportunities, with the goal of creating a more sustainable and inclusive growth model. Key recommendations from the workshop will likely shape the final program.
Key points
- Egypt's Center for Information and Decision Support hosts workshop to discuss national economic transformation program
- The program aims to enhance sustainable growth, increase productivity and competitiveness, and boost production, exports, and employment
- Experts emphasize the importance of private sector participation, data-driven policies, and stability in economic policies to drive growth and investment
