World Bank Supports Egypt’s Mining Sector Development

Egypt’s Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources and the World Bank Group have announced the launch of a strategic partnership and a national compact aimed at developing Egypt’s mining sector, as part of a broader initiative involving eight countries.

World Bank Supports Egypt’s Mining

The Egyptian National Compact aims to increase the mining sector’s contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to 6%.

The development plan includes legislative and fiscal reforms, building on measures already introduced and progress achieved over the past two years.

It also focuses on improving geological data to attract investment, advancing digital systems, and developing mineral processing centres to maximise the sector’s economic potential.

Meanwhile, the World Bank Group and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) are working together to strengthen governance, build institutional capacity, and attract further investment into Egypt’s mining industry.

Egypt’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Karim Badawi, emphasised that the country is pursuing a comprehensive transformation of its mining sector while creating a more attractive investment environment.

He explained that these efforts aim to establish a sustainable, competitive mining industry and position Egypt as a leading destination for mining investment at both regional and international levels.

Badawi also highlighted the importance of expanding cooperation with the World Bank Group and international financial institutions to mobilise funding, attract investment, and secure technical assistance in support of the sector’s development.

For her part, Namrata Thapar, Global Director for Minerals and Mining at the World Bank Group, stressed the importance of the partnership with Egypt in supporting the country’s mining sector transformation.

Speaking during her recent participation in the Egypt Mining Forum, held in the New Administrative Capital, Thapar praised the substantial reforms undertaken by Egypt and the clear national vision guiding the sector’s development.

She also highlighted Egypt’s mineral resources, well-developed infrastructure, and increasingly supportive investment environment as key factors in attracting investors and accelerating the industry’s growth.

Thapar noted that the progress achieved reflects Egypt’s commitment to modernising its mining industry and maximising the economic value of its mineral wealth.

She added that these developments create significant opportunities for deeper cooperation with the World Bank Group to support Egypt’s mining ambitions and strengthen its position in the global mining industry.

At the global level, the World Bank Group plans to increase its support for the mining sector fivefold, reaching $19 billion over fiscal years 2026–2030, through financing initiatives and the mobilisation of private-sector investment.