Mr. Hossam Heiba, CEO of the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI), participated in the 11th edition of the World Free Zones Organization Global Annual Congress, hosted by Hainan Province in China. The event brought together representatives from the Ministry of Investment and Trade, along with delegates from free zones across 90 countries.

 In his address, Mr. Heiba highlighted the vital role of free zones as a key driver of Egypt's economic growth. He noted that free zones contribute approximately 22% of Egypt's total merchandise exports, while also playing a key role in technology localization, job creation, and overall economic expansion. Moreover, he highlighted their contribution to balanced national development, as GAFI currently manages 13 public free zones and 218 private free zones spread across the country.

 Mr. Heiba added that the Egyptian government has capitalized on the current global trade challenges to attract stable and sustainable investments, a significant portion of which has been directed to the free zones. These zones are supported by attractive customs and tax incentives, in addition to Egypt's extensive network of trade agreements linking it to around 3 billion consumers worldwide.

 Regarding support for startups and entrepreneurship, Mr. Heiba announced that GAFI has recently allocated 9,000 square meters within free zones for administrative and operational offices dedicated to startups. This initiative aims to create an enabling investment environment for emerging Egyptian companies, particularly those engaged in software exports and artificial intelligence applications. GAFI is also providing advisory, marketing, and legal services to boost startups' growth potential and facilitate their access to global markets. Furthermore, GAFI hosts the permanent headquarters of the Entrepreneurship and Startups Support Unit, which coordinates efforts among public and private entities to strengthen this vital sector.

 Mr. Heiba reaffirmed the Egyptian government's deep belief in the importance of regional and international cooperation among free zones, recognizing its pivotal role in fostering shared prosperity and enhancing the competitiveness of developing economies. He noted that Egypt continuously organizes training programs for African cadres to strengthen their capacity in managing free zones and actively engages in exchanging delegations and expertise with countries seeking to enhance investment cooperation with Egypt.

 ​​Concluding his remarks, Mr. Heiba invited participants to build friendships, partnerships, and cooperation among free zones worldwide to promote trade in goods and production inputs and to establish sustainable value chains that serve the interests of all nations.



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