Context
With an estimated population of 111 million people, Egypt is the most populous country the Middle East and the third-most populous in Africa. Egypt’s Gross Domestic Product was worth USD 476.75 billion in 2022 and the country had a growth rate of 6.6 percent the same year (World Bank 2023).
The Industrial Development in Egypt
Egypt’s industrial sector is a significant part of its economy, contributing around 15% to the total GDP. The country is shifting towards technology-intensive manufacturing, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and enhanced ties with the African continent. The government has set ambitious goals to make Egypt the leading industrial power in the Middle East and North Africa by 2050.
Egypt is also committed to preparing for Industry 4.0, with several industrial policy initiatives underway to support this transition. The focus is on building domestic capabilities, supporting entrepreneurs, and promoting national skills to drive comprehensive development.
In 2024, Egypt's industrial sector continues to demonstrate robust growth and transformation, solidifying its position as a key player in the region's industrial landscape. With ongoing investments and government initiatives, the country's industrial base is diversifying and modernizing across various sectors.
UNIDO works closely with the Egyptian government and other stakeholders to promote inclusive and sustainable industrial development. This includes initiatives to enhance energy efficiency, promote renewable energy sources, and address environmental challenges associated with industrial activities. By promoting cleaner production methods and sustainable resource management, UNIDO contributes to Egypt's goals of achieving economic growth while minimizing environmental impact.
UNIDO's cooperation with Egypt extends to areas such as industrial innovation, quality infrastructure development, and trade facilitation. Through capacity-building programs, technical assistance projects, and knowledge-sharing initiatives, UNIDO supports Egypt to strengthen its industrial capabilities and competitiveness in regional and international markets.