Africa Economy

The Egypt Vision 2030 strategy is more of a statement of broad economic intent than a precise roadmap. However, against the backdrop of the global Covid-19 pandemic and with government policy focused on short-term mitigation efforts, the document provides as a useful reminder of the nation’s long-term economic ambitions. Launched in 2016, the strategy aims to create a “...

What are the key economic priorities following completion of the IMF-backed reform programme?

Prior to the onset of the global Covid-19 pandemic an ambitious programme of economic reform had succeeded in accelerating Egypt’s growth and reducing its fiscal deficit. The creation of a more business-friendly environment and the streamlining of the country’s bureaucracy has seen Egypt rise steadily in global rankings. This progress has, however, been disrupted by the...

Although the country’s constitution dates from 2014, Egypt has been a presidential republic since the overthrow of the Muhammed Ali dynasty in 1952. Prior to 2019 the president served an initial four-year term, which could then be followed by a second term. However, after a referendum in April of that year, the public voted in favour of...

Before the onset of Covid-19, Egypt’s economy was among the strongest performers in the MENA region. Business leaders are largely confident that a number of sectors stand to benefit from positive fundamental changes brought about by the pandemic. The country’s CEOs have made it clear that the crisis could lead to structural benefits in the...

Although trade flows among African states remain below their potential, an ambitious project is under way to accelerate economic integration and significantly expand intra-continental trade. Spearheaded by the African Union (AU), the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement was signed in March 2018 and aims to reduce both tariff...