Egypt’s Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, Mohamed Farid, and the British Ambassador to Egypt, Mark Bryson-Richardson, reviewed a range of economic, trade, and investment issues aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and expanding commercial ties between the two countries.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed ways to deepen the Egypt-UK economic partnership, with a particular focus on attracting new British investments, supporting existing companies, and increasing bilateral trade.
Farid reaffirmed the Egyptian government’s commitment to strengthening economic cooperation with the UK, stressing that Egypt continues to implement reforms to create a more competitive business environment and address challenges facing investors through close coordination with relevant authorities.
The discussions covered the operations and expansion plans of British companies in Egypt, particularly AstraZeneca, as well as procedures related to several new investment projects aimed at reinforcing Egypt’s position as a regional investment hub.
Both sides also reviewed investment opportunities within the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE), examining mechanisms to support targeted projects in the zone and attract additional British investment.
The meeting addressed regulatory and tax issues affecting British companies operating in Egypt, alongside ongoing efforts to facilitate investment procedures.
Farid said the ministry maintains direct engagement with investors and coordinates closely with relevant government entities to resolve challenges and support business expansion.
Cooperation in the pharmaceutical industry also featured prominently in the talks, with discussions covering regulatory issues that could further support British pharmaceutical companies operating in the Egyptian market.
On the trade front, the two officials explored ways to increase Egyptian agricultural exports to the UK, particularly strawberries and grapes, while reviewing proposals aimed at expanding bilateral trade and maintaining balanced commercial relations.
The discussions also covered trade-related developments, including UK measures affecting the steel sector.
Farid underscored the importance of continued dialogue within the framework of the Egypt-UK Partnership Agreement to preserve stable trade relations while respecting the commitments of both sides.
The minister reiterated that Egypt believes in continuous consultation and dialogue to address economic and trade issues, noting that such an approach supports investment, promotes trade, and advances the shared interests of both countries.
For his part, Ambassador Bryson-Richardson reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to building on the positive momentum in bilateral economic relations and praised the progress achieved in recent years. He also highlighted the growing interest among British companies in expanding their investments in Egypt and affirmed continued coordination with the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade to advance joint projects and strengthen trade and investment cooperation.
The two sides agreed to continue holding regular meetings to monitor progress on shared priorities and further strengthen economic relations between Egypt and the United Kingdom.
