Unlocking Egypt’s Economic Potential Through Strategic Reform and Global Partnerships :By Mohamed Gad

The past few years have been a testament to Egypt’s unwavering determination to build a resilient economic future. With the second wave of structural reforms, the government has set a bold and transformative course—one that places private sector empowerment at the heart of its strategy. These reforms go far beyond incremental changes; they lay the foundation for unlocking Egypt’s full economic potential, driving sustainable development, and fostering long-term growth.
A key pillar of this progress is the government’s focus on infrastructure—particularly in renewable energy, transportation, and water resources. By fostering an environment that encourages private sector participation and attracts foreign investments, Egypt is positioning itself as a regional powerhouse and a magnet for global investment. This strategic vision not only diversifies the economy but also creates exciting opportunities for trade, investment, and innovation.
Looking at the economic outlook, Egypt is poised for positive momentum. Inflation is expected to ease significantly as fiscal reforms continue to take shape. We anticipate GDP growth of around 4% in 2025, driven by fiscal discipline, improved foreign exchange (FX) liquidity, and a rise in foreign direct investment (FDI). Inflation, which averaged 33.6% in FY24, is projected to drop sharply to 21% in FY25, with a significant decline by early 2025, supported by subsidy reforms and a strong base effect. The Central Bank of Egypt’s anticipated easing cycle in 2025 will further stabilize the economy, enhancing confidence in the investment climate despite ongoing challenges like portfolio outflows and energy trade imbalances.
Egypt’s strategic importance is undeniable. Its geographical position—serving as a gateway between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia—along with its membership in BRICS, strengthens its role as a hub for trade and commerce. The March 2024 devaluation of the Egyptian pound has improved FX convertibility, boosting its appeal as a business destination. With improved liquidity and moderating inflation, Egypt is primed to capitalize on its many strengths.
At Standard Chartered, we are inspired by the wealth of opportunities in Egypt, particularly in trade, investment, and infrastructure development. These opportunities are amplified by the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth and creating an investor-friendly environment.
Our engagement with Egypt has been purposeful and rewarding. Since establishing our representative office in 2007, we have steadily expanded our presence, culminating in the opening of our full-fledged banking branch in New Cairo in January 2024. This milestone reflects our commitment to serving government entities, financial institutions, and multinational corporations, aligning with Egypt’s economic priorities and Vision 2030.
Today, we offer a comprehensive suite of Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) services, supporting sovereign entities, facilitating trade, and driving sustainable development. The positive feedback from clients, regulators, and stakeholders motivates us to deepen our presence and impact in this vibrant market.
As we look toward 2025, our priorities are clear. We aim to strengthen trade corridors, execute milestone transactions, and partner with globally aligned corporations. Our focus remains on key sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy, and cross-border trade, where Egypt is showing remarkable progress.
We are also ready to support Egypt’s digital transformation journey, as led by the Central Bank of Egypt. With the rising demand for innovative financial solutions, we are leveraging our expertise in digital banking and fintech to introduce cutting-edge products that enhance client experiences and advance Egypt’s digital economy.
Our mission is simple yet profound: to be a trusted partner in Egypt’s economic aspirations. By combining global expertise with local insights and aligning with the nation’s priorities, we aim to contribute meaningfully to shaping a prosperous and inclusive future for Egypt and its people.