
Country overview
The Arab Republic of Egypt has a strategic geographical location in the heart of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region with sea ports scattered over the Mediterranean, Red Sea and Suez Canal, making it a hub for international trade between Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Far East. The Suez Canal links the Red Sea to the Mediterranean – a connection vital not just to Egypt but to the world.
Egypt is a lower-middle income country with a population of almost 100 million. Its fast-growing, young population, diverse and expanding economy, and its strategic location make it an ideal global business hub. At nearly 30 million, Egypt’s labour pool is the largest in the region, consisting of a well-trained, highly-educated and competitive workforce in a variety of sectors.
As an added incentive, beneficial trade agreements, including the Greater Arab Free Trade Area (GAFTA) and Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), provide the country with favoured access to regional growth markets. Egypt’s free trade agreement with the EU means that UK companies trading with Egypt are exempt from tariffs on industrial products. Many already benefit; the value of UK trade with Egypt is around £3 billion. In addition the numerous free zones around the country support Egypt-based manufacturing hubs for SMEs and multinationals. There are abundant opportunities for UK businesses.

About this guide
This guide aims to provide a route map of the way ahead, together with signposts to other sources of help.
The main objective of this Doing Business in Egypt Guide is to provide you with basic knowledge about Egypt; an overview of its economy, business culture, potential opportunities and to identify the main issues associated with initial research, market entry, risk management and cultural and language issues.
We do not pretend to provide all the answers in the guide, but novice exporters in particular will find it a useful starting point. Further assistance is available from the Department for International Trade (DIT) team in Egypt. Full contact details are available in this guide.
To help your business succeed in Egypt we have carefully selected a variety of essential service providers as ‘Market Experts’ Click Here
The guide is available in 4 formats:
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this website
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a ‘free’ downloadable 'mobile device-friendly’ app – available from the iTunes App Store and Google Play Store
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a full colour hard-copy brochure (to order your copy please Click Here)
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PDF download/e-flipbook (available to download below)

About IOE&IT
An introduction to the Institute of Export & International Trade
Established in 1935, the Institute of Export & International Trade is the professional membership body representing and supporting the interests of everyone involved in importing, exporting and international trade. Offering a unique range of individual and business membership benefits and a world renowned suite of qualifications and training, the Institute is the leading authority in best practice and competence for businesses trading globally.
To view other videos, please visit the IOE&IT YouTube Channel.
For more information visit: www.export.org.uk
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