Egypt’s Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said, on Wednesday, that full preparations are required to face water torrents and heavy rains that the country could be exposed to in the coming period.
During a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Madbouly instructed for an emergency plan to be put in place to secure Egypt’s vital and service facilities. This would also ensure that emergency teams and equipment are provided to deal with any potential emergency during the rainy season.
Meanwhile, the cabinet has approved a draft regarding the rules and procedures for offering heavy industry licences to investors.
The draft decision states that the Industrial Development Authority (IDA) will have the facility to annually determine the licences for heavy industries needed from every investor. This would cover their geographical distribution, whilst also taking into consideration the available energy, Egypt’s economic needs, and the potentials of domestic consumption and exportation.
The IDA will also cooperate with other authorities to select the sites on which the establishment of heavy industries is permitted, considering the availability of raw materials, transportation, and energy sources.
The Cabinet has also agreed to establish a special free zone, which will be located in the 10th of Ramadan City’s A1 industrial zone. The new zone will be allocated to Egypt’s textile industries, including fabric and ready-made clothes production.
In addition to this, the Cabinet approved the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities’ proposal to postpone payment dues for tourism companies and hotel establishments. Covering electricity, gas, water and other governmental services fees, the proposal is effective until 31 December 2020.
The Cabinet also approved the continued visa fee exemption for tourists visiting the governorates of South Sinai, Red Sea, Luxor, and Aswan, until 30 April 2021.
