Number of projects in Egypt’s free economic zones rises to 1,243

A total of 152 new projects were launched in Egypt’s free economic zones in 2025, bringing their total number to 1,243, reports Daily News Egypt, a partner of TV BRICS.

The report notes that performance indicators for public free zones have improved significantly. Invested capital increased by 30.3 per cent to US$14.2 billion, including US$2.8 billion in foreign direct investment.

Total capital expenditure rose by 66.5 per cent to US$38.3 billion. Exports more than doubled to US$9.3 billion, accounting for nearly 20 per cent of the country’s total exports.

More than 248,000 people are currently employed in free zone projects across the country.

Egypt’s Cabinet emphasises that free zones form the backbone of the country’s investment ecosystem. They create a flexible and business-friendly environment, attract both domestic and foreign investment, offer tax incentives and simplified procedures, enhance the competitiveness of the national economy, and strengthen Egypt’s position as a regional hub for industry, logistics, and international trade.

At present, 231 public and private free zones are either operational or under development in Egypt. All operate under state supervision, but within special fiscal, customs, and monetary regulations.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has identified Egypt’s free zones as a key driver of foreign direct investment inflows. In January 2026, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) noted that Egypt has ranked first in Africa for foreign direct investment inflows for the fourth consecutive year, supported in part by digital company registration services.

The Cabinet stated that these results reflect successful efforts to improve the investment climate, accelerate industrial growth, and expand Egypt’s export base.