Egypt sees $12B in annual foreign investment: El-Khatib

Egypt continues to attract significant foreign investment, with foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows averaging $12 billion per year, according to Hassan El-Khatib, Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade. 

 

Speaking to a delegation from Moody’s Investors Service, El-Khatib emphasized that FDI is a cornerstone of Egypt’s economic growth strategy and highlighted the government’s plans to further expand investment opportunities.

 

“The volume of investment entering the country is the key growth indicator for the coming period,” El-Khatib said. 

 

He added that ongoing economic reforms are designed to create a transparent, efficient, and competitive environment capable of doubling current FDI levels over the next few years.

 

The minister outlined measures that have strengthened Egypt’s investment climate. Customs clearance times have been reduced from roughly 16 days to about five, with a target of just two days, generating billions in annual savings. Licensing and business registration processes are being streamlined through a new digital platform, cutting approval times from 24 months to under 90 days.

 

El-Khatib highlighted priority sectors for investment, including energy, infrastructure, data centers, tourism, and advanced industries, while noting the government’s efforts to maximize returns from state assets through the sovereign wealth fund. He also emphasized Egypt’s strategic location as a bridge between regional and international markets, which positions the country as a hub for foreign investors.

 

During the meeting, Moody’s delegation praised Egypt’s economic reforms. Matt Robinson, Assistant Managing Director for Sovereign Ratings in the Middle East and Africa, highlighted improvements in governance, transparency, and the business environment as key to attracting foreign investment. 

 

Alexander Bergisi, Vice President and Senior Risk Officer, noted that reforms in subsidy management, energy pricing, and digital licensing processes strengthen economic and financial sustainability.

 

“The steps Egypt is taking to simplify regulations and enhance competitiveness are supporting investor confidence and sustainable growth,” Robinson said, underscoring the country’s rising appeal to international investors.