Egypt targets mining sector expansion to 6% of GDP with first aerial survey in decades

Egypt is intensifying efforts to transform its mining industry into a key driver of economic growth, with plans to raise the sector’s contribution to gross domestic product to around 6 per cent, up from less than 1 per cent currently.

Egypt’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Karim Badawi, confirmed that a comprehensive aerial geophysical survey will begin in June. The project will mark the country’s first such survey since 1984 and is expected to provide high-precision geological data critical for evaluating mineral reserves and accelerating investment decisions.

The government has placed mining at the centre of its economic strategy, aiming to unlock untapped resources and enhance the sector’s overall efficiency. Officials emphasise that improved data availability will play a decisive role in increasing transparency, reducing exploration risks, and making the sector more attractive to both domestic and international investors.

To support this shift, Egypt is modernising its regulatory and contractual frameworks in line with international standards. The reforms are designed to strengthen investor confidence and create a more predictable business environment, supported by targeted incentives for a range of industry participants.

According to Daily News Egypt, a partner of TV BRICS, the country’s geological profile is considered highly promising, with mineral-rich formations extending across regional boundaries. Combined with established transport networks and export infrastructure, these resources are expected to underpin the development of downstream industries and strengthen Egypt’s position in global mineral supply chains.

In parallel, policymakers are promoting closer coordination between government bodies, industrial stakeholders, and research institutions. The integration of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, is seen as essential for identifying new deposits, improving operational efficiency, and reducing environmental impact.

Egypt is also advocating for new international cooperation models to support large-scale mineral development and cross-border value chains. Officials argue that such collaboration will be vital for overcoming structural challenges and maximising the economic potential of critical raw materials.