Egypt and the World Bank Group have launched a national mining development charter aimed at raising mining’s GDP contribution to 6% through regulatory reforms, improved geological data, digital systems and mineral processing infrastructure.
Egypt’s Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources and the World Bank Group have launched a partnership and national charter to develop the country’s mining sector, attract investment and increase the industry’s contribution to the economy. The initiative forms part of a broader programme covering eight countries.
The national charter aims to raise mining’s contribution to Egypt’s gross domestic product (GDP) to 6%, compared with less than 1% currently. To support this target, the plan includes legislative and fiscal reforms, improvements to geological data, digital systems and the development of mineral processing centres. These measures are intended to improve the investment environment and strengthen the country’s ability to identify, develop and commercially utilise its mineral resources.
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Egyptian Petroleum and Mineral Resources Minister Karim Badawi said the government is pursuing comprehensive development of the sector to establish a sustainable and competitive mining industry. He highlighted the importance of cooperation with the World Bank and other international financial institutions to secure financing, attract investors and obtain technical assistance.
Namrata Thapar, the World Bank Group’s Global Director for Metals and Minerals, said the partnership could support Egypt’s efforts to maximise the value of its mineral resources. She also pointed to the country’s geological potential, infrastructure and investment environment as factors that could help accelerate sector development.
The World Bank Group and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) are also working together to strengthen governance, build institutional capacity and mobilise investment in the mining industry. Their involvement is expected to support reforms and help create conditions for greater participation by private-sector companies.
The initiative aligns with Egypt’s broader ambition to develop mining beyond the extraction and export of raw materials. Earlier discussions with the World Bank have highlighted opportunities in mineral processing, phosphate, fertilisers and related industries, alongside support for emerging mining companies and improved access to financing. Developing these activities could increase domestic value addition and strengthen Egypt’s integration into international mineral supply chains.
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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 direct financing and the mobilisation of private investment. The Egypt partnership is intended to contribute to this wider effort to develop mineral resources and strengthen the sector. However, the announcement did not specify a dedicated funding amount for Egypt under the new charter.