An official delegation from the Republic of Zambia, led by Dr. Albert Halwampa, Director General at Zambia Development Agency, visited Nasr City Free Zone, Cairo, to learn about the mechanisms of free zone operations in Egypt and the incentives granted to companies. Mr. Yasser Abbas, GAFI Deputy CEO, welcomed the Zambian delegation and accompanied them on an inspection tour of the factories within the free zone. He introduced them to the various investment systems in Egypt, including Public Free Zones, Private Free Zones, Investment Zones, Technological Zones, and others. He also explained the efficient and fast operational mechanisms within the free zones, which ensure sustainable and regulated connectivity with ports, especially given that most products from these zones are intended for export. Mr. Yasser Abbas provided a detailed explanation of the investment opportunities available in the Egyptian free zones and the state's plans to expand these zones due to their vital role in localizing technology and increasing foreign currency revenues. The Zambian delegation expressed admiration for the advanced technological level and high production capabilities of the factories operating in the Nasr City Free Zone. Dr. Albert Halwampa affirmed the Zambian government's desire to enhance cooperation with Egypt in the fields of manufacturing and trade, benefiting from Egypt's successful experience in free zones management. He emphasized the importance of exchanging expertise and technology between the two countries to serve as a model for intra-African cooperation. Mr. Yasser Abbas reaffirmed GAFI’s commitment to providing full support to Zambia through joint cooperation agreements, training programs, and knowledge transfer. He also encouraged the Egyptian business community to invest in Zambia, in line with the Egyptian government's vision to deepen investment cooperation with African nations and create value chains that connect raw materials and manufacturing processes within Africa, enabling African industries to compete in global markets.
