In light of accelerating global challenges and ongoing regional developments, the government has announced a comprehensive package of economic and social measures aimed at safeguarding national stability, supporting citizens, and reinforcing the resilience of the national economy.
During a press conference held at the government headquarters in the New Capital on Wednesday evening, Egypt’s Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouli reaffirmed the government’s commitment to convening its weekly press briefings, due to exceptional circumstances.
Minister of Finance, Ahmed Kouchouk, and Minister of State for Information, Diaa Rashwan, were present during the press conference.
At the opening, Madbouli highlighted the successful convening of the Egypt International Energy Conference and Exhibition (EGYPS 2026), during which Abdel Fattah El Sisi called for peace, de-escalation, and an immediate cessation of military operations, warning of their severe global repercussions, particularly on energy infrastructure.
The prime minister stressed that targeting such facilities could result in prolonged instability, underscoring Egypt’s firm position in favour of ending ongoing conflicts.
He further noted the positive outcomes of the President Sisi’s meetings with international energy companies, highlighting their appreciation of Egypt’s commitment to settling dues to foreign partners.
This, he said, serves as a strong incentive for increased investments in exploration and production, with expectations of new discoveries and projects coming online within the next three years.
Increasing domestic production, he added, remains essential to safeguarding the national economy from global shocks.
Addressing domestic measures, the prime minister outlined a series of policies aimed at rationalising energy consumption, including earlier shop closing hours as part of a gradual approach to avoid more severe measures.
He announced the activation of a remote working system across government institutions starting next Sunday, with coordination underway with the banking and private sectors.
The initiative aims to sustain economic productivity while reducing traffic and fuel consumption, with the possibility of further expansion if necessary, the Cabinet Spokesman Ambassador Mohamed el-Homosani said in a statement.
He added that Premier Madbouli emphasised that all ministers are responsible for the strict implementation of austerity measures, with performance and savings closely monitored by the Ministries of Finance and Planning.
He stressed that these efforts are intended to preserve resources and avoid future price increases amid rising global energy costs.
In response to public demand, the Prime Minister announced extended business hours from April 10 to 13, 2026, allowing establishments to operate until 11:00 PM in celebration of upcoming holidays.
The Cabinet also reviewed efforts to ensure the availability of essential goods, medicines, and medical supplies.
In this respect, a decision was taken to increase strategic reserves from six to nine months to enhance market stability and prevent unjustified price increases.
Additionally, the number of mobile outlets distributing goods, including chilled and frozen products, will be expanded nationwide, the spokesman noted.
On fiscal policy, Premier Madbouli confirmed that the wage allocation in the 2026/2027 state budget will increase by 21%, marking the highest rise in recent years.
This includes a 15% allowance, additional support for teachers and healthcare workers, and a LE1,000 increase in the minimum wage, alongside proportional increases across other grades.
Finally, the Prime Minister announced that, pursuant to directives from President Sisi, the wheat procurement price has been raised to LE 2,500 per ardeb, up from LE 2,350.
He described this as a fair and incentivising price aimed at supporting Egyptian farmers and prioritising domestic production over imports.
