Egypt: New trade entity aimed at strengthening exports across Arab markets

Egypt is set to establish a new trade entity aimed at strengthening exports across Arab markets, as part of a broader strategy to drive economic growth. The Arab Alliance for Industrial Investment, comprising 41 private Egyptian companies, is expected to be fully operational by next week, according to a report by Ashraq Business released on March 6.

The initiative is designed to enhance Egypt’s trade presence in the region, with dedicated offices in Libya, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates.

Beyond boosting exports, the alliance will offer a range of services to investors, including promotional activities, construction projects, and liaising with government bodies. The move comes as Egypt seeks to counter a sharp drop in Suez Canal revenues, which declined by 60 percent, or $7 billion, in 2024. The government aims to enhance total foreign exchange inflows to $145 billion by 2030, with investments from Arab nations playing a significant role. In the last quarter of the 2023-24 fiscal year, foreign direct investment from Arab countries reached $39.5 billion, led by the UAE.