Egypt

It has been a difficult few years for Egypt’s economically vital tourism sector, in the wake of the 2011 revolution and with civil unrest continuing to occur in the summer of 2013. Visitor numbers and revenues recovered in 2012, indicating that the industry has impressive capacity to bounce back from setbacks, as it has many times previously....

Despite being home to the largest population in the Arab world, Egypt hosts comparatively few modern large-scale retail supermarkets, hypermarkets and malls – and almost none away from the major cities of Cairo and Alexandria or tourist areas – making for enormous potential for growth. Indeed, the modern retail segment is growing rapidly, and...

One of the largest concerns for the Ministry of Petroleum since the start of 2011 has been the potentially adverse effects of political uncertainty, as well as a deterioration of security conditions as Egypt undergoes its challenging political transition. While there has been some concern that the political unrest of the last years would deter...

A rapidly expanding population and economy has led to ever greater demand for refined petroleum products – especially diesel – in Egypt. This became quite apparent during the first half of 2013, when shortages at petrol stations led to widespread queuing and mounting public dismay. The question of fuel, supply, therefore, is as much a political one...

It was recently announced that a delegation from the IMF is set to arrive in Cairo to pursue negotiations regarding its expected loan to Egypt. A general consensus has recently emerged that the IMF is urging Egypt to implement a financial austerity programme, aimed mainly at controlling government finances and reducing the country's budget...