The General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI) has announced plans to begin operating four new public free zones by the end of 2026, as part of Egypt’s strategy to expand industrial investment and drive export growth.
The announcement followed an extended meeting between GAFI and investors from existing public free zones, focused on strengthening operational mechanisms in line with the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade’s “Investment for Export” plan.
The decision comes after the Ministerial Group for Industrial Development—chaired by Kamel El-Wazir, Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Industry and Transport—approved GAFI’s proposal to establish new zones in 10th of Ramadan City, New October City, New Borg El-Arab City, and New Alamein City. The move was prompted by high demand, with Egypt’s nine existing public free zones now operating at a 95% occupancy rate.
GAFI CEO Hossam Heiba emphasised that production in the new zones will be fully export-oriented. He said the approach is designed to support Egypt’s goal of achieving $140 billion in exports by 2030, while avoiding competition with domestic industries. The zones will also promote fair investment practices, maximise incentive policies, and focus on green transformation and environmental compliance.
To accelerate the initiative, GAFI is coordinating with the New Urban Communities Authority (NUCA) on infrastructure development to meet surging industrial investment demand. In addition, discussions are underway to establish three more public free zones, which would raise the total number to 16, doubling the current capacity.
During the meeting, GAFI and investors agreed to form a working group with representatives from all industrial sectors. The committee will develop strategies for zone operations and propose mechanisms to help meet Egypt’s ambitious export targets.
Melissa Enoch
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