Egypt’s Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, Hassan El-Khatib, has said that the country is working to secure a place among the world’s top 50 nations in trade and investment competitiveness within the next two years.
Speaking at the Egypt–Rwanda Business Forum, held in the presence of Rwandan Minister of Trade Égide Gatera, El-Khatib outlined Egypt’s progress in modern infrastructure, citing advanced railways, road networks, energy systems, and the development of new cities. He also highlighted achievements in agriculture, where the adoption of smart irrigation systems and modern farming techniques has strengthened productivity and food security.
El-Khatib reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to creating a competitive investment climate. “We have simplified business procedures, reduced bureaucratic hurdles, and accelerated licensing processes to enhance ease of doing business,” he said.
The Minister stressed the importance of Egypt’s growing partnership with Rwanda, noting that infrastructure is a central focus of cooperation. Other promising areas include agriculture and agro-industrial development, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, education and training, knowledge transfer, and renewable energy, sectors where Egypt is ready to share expertise in support of Rwanda’s growth.
Trade relations between the two countries have expanded significantly, with bilateral trade reaching $216 million in 2024, up from $68 million in 2023. While welcoming the surge, El-Khatib said the figures remain below potential. “Our ambition is to double this figure in the coming years by expanding trade, strengthening investment ties, and maximizing the benefits of existing trade agreements,” he noted.
He added that the forum serves as a valuable platform to deepen cooperation and share expertise, particularly through the two countries’ participation in COMESA and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). “Through these frameworks, we aim to facilitate the flow of goods, services, and investments, enhance regional value chains, and contribute to achieving the African Union’s Agenda 2063,” El-Khatib concluded.
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