Egypt economy grows 5.1% as Suez Canal activity surges

Egypt's economy grew by 5.1% during the 2025-2026 fiscal year, an increase from the 4.4% growth recorded in the previous year. According to Minister of Planning and Economic Development Ahmed Rostom, this performance exceeded international expectations and was driven by improvements in industry, petroleum refining, and the Suez Canal.

The Suez Canal specifically showed significant recovery, recording a growth rate of approximately 33% in the fourth quarter and 23.3% for the full fiscal year. Additionally, the petroleum refining sector saw a 22.4% growth in the fourth quarter.

Regarding national debt, the Egyptian Cabinet clarified that rumors suggesting the transfer of state assets, including the Suez Canal, to the Central Bank to settle local debt are not government proposals. The government emphasized that the Suez Canal is a strategic public facility linked to national sovereignty and security.

To manage debt, the Ministry of Finance plans to execute international issuances totaling approximately $3 billion for the 2026/2027 fiscal year, including traditional and innovative bonds. This follows the successful execution of $4 billion in international issuances during the 2025/2026 fiscal year.