Egypt introduces 50% reduction in commercial licensing fees

The Egyptian government is developing a new system for public shop licensing to simplify procedures for commercial activities and encourage unlicensed businesses to formalize their status. Key measures include a 50% reduction in licensing fees to ease financial burdens and the introduction of temporary operating permits to allow businesses to function while final approvals are processed.

To improve efficiency, the new system establishes a three-month deadline for completing approval processes. If a competent authority fails to respond within this timeframe, it will be considered an implicit approval. Additionally, the initiative aims to unify procedures and fees across different governorates and expand electronic government services to reduce the time and effort required for licensing.

Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development and Environment, stated that the goal is to simplify procedures and accelerate service delivery while maintaining legal regulations. The system also includes provisions for shops located within buildings with violations, with specific regulations extending until the end of 2027.