Cairo – August 11, 2025: Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk reaffirmed his dedication to strengthening Egypt’s private sector and enhancing its reach into African markets during a key meeting with the Egyptian-African Businessmen Association.
He highlighted that fostering a business environment conducive to investment has allowed domestic companies to expand rapidly, compete effectively, and adapt quickly to emerging opportunities.
In talks with Dr. Yousry El-Sharkawy, Chairman of the Association’s Investment and Economic Development sector, Kouchouk underscored the importance of strengthening public-private partnerships as a driving force behind regional development across the continent.
He also noted that Egypt is prepared to support African countries through the transfer of expertise, successful reform models, and technical collaboration.
The minister also outlined a set of forthcoming administrative and structural reforms at the Egyptian Tax Authority aimed at easing the tax process for companies and investors. These reforms are designed to stimulate production and exports, while improving trust and cooperation with the business community.
Subsequently, Ahmed Omwi, Head of the Customs Authority, announced efforts to streamline clearance procedures, lower costs, and introduce automated risk management systems. These initiatives aim to accelerate the release of low-risk shipments and reduce bottlenecks for exporters.
Rasha Abdel Aal, Head of the Egyptian Tax Authority, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to building a more efficient and collaborative tax environment. She noted that reducing disputes and addressing business challenges pragmatically are top priorities for promoting sustained economic growth.
Dr. El-Sharkawy praised the ministry’s efforts to reduce burdens on investors and congratulated Kouchouk for being named Africa’s Best Finance Minister for 2025. He said the award reflects the country’s strategic approach in appointing leaders capable of agile, effective decision-making to support the private sector.
He also revealed plans to establish a permanent dialogue platform between the ministry and the private sector via a new “Think Tank” initiative. This forum will help guide future tax and customs reforms while ensuring that business voices remain central to policy development.
According to El-Sharkawy, early reforms under the ministry’s facilitation package have already yielded positive results, with increased engagement and confidence from the business community.
A number of influential figures from the Egyptian-African Businessmen Association attended the meeting, representing a cross-section of economic sectors. Participants included Ahmed Samir El-Adl (International Trade), Eng. Karim Ismail (Industry & Sports Investment), Hazem Hamada (Exhibitions & Conferences), Eng. Hussein El-Gazzawy (Renewable Energy), and others from sectors such as construction, information technology, logistics, and customs.
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