Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchok on Tuesday stressed the importance of engaging in dialogue with private sector representatives and international institutions to build a more sustainable economic future.
Kouchouk’s remarks were made during his participation in a business forum in Cairo. The minister told the gathering at the Banking and Finance Committee of Chapter Zero Egypt Association, which is a dynamic community of business leaders, sustainability professionals, and board members dedicated to driving climate action and promoting sustainable practices in Egypt, that Egypt’s financial policies are focused on creating a more competitive economy.
He highlighted the state’s ongoing efforts to integrate climate considerations into initiatives aimed at boosting economic activity in industries such as tourism and improving the competitiveness of Egyptian exports.
The minister showed interest in receiving innovative ideas from the private sector to include sustainability in Egypt’s new export support programme, reviewing efforts to reduce debt and create financial space to better support economic activity, social spending, and human development.
“Egypt is working on diversifying funding sources, including issuing sustainability and social bonds, and supporting both local and foreign businesses in financing green projects to achieve sustainable growth,” he said.
Ahmed El Sewedy, Group Chairman and CEO of El Sewedy Electric, welcomed the Minister’s approach, praising his commitment to solving industrial sector challenges and improving the business climate.
Ehab Mahawed, General Manager of Orascom Construction, highlighted Egypt’s strategic advantages in attracting international investments, particularly in renewable energy, and recommended expanding waste-to-energy projects to reduce financial burdens.
HelmyAbouleish, Chairman of SEKEM Group, stressed the importance of sustainable agriculture to address water scarcity.
Manal Hassan, Vice-President of Elsewedy Electric, called for mandatory carbon disclosure for companies exporting to Egypt and greater investment incentives for venture capital.
Ayman Salah, Founder and CEO of Chapter Zero Egypt, stressed the need for continuous coordination with the Ministry of Finance to increase private sector involvement in development projects and tackle challenges.
