Egypt Signs $100 Million Sustainability-Linked Deal with EBRD, Banque Misr

Egypt’s Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation announced a landmark agreement between the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and Banque Misr, marking Egypt’s first-ever $100 million sustainability-linked financing agreement.

The agreement was signed by Hisham Okasha, CEO of Banque Misr, and Francis Malige, Managing Director and Head of Financial Institutions Business Group at the EBRD, in the presence of Minister Dr. Rania A. Al-Mashat, Egypt’s Governor at the EBRD. Senior executives from both institutions, including Mark Davis, EBRD Managing Director for the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean region, also attended the signing.

Minister Al-Mashat highlighted Egypt’s commitment to expanding innovative financing tools for the private sector in collaboration with international partners. She emphasized that this deal aligns with Egypt’s broader strategy to mobilize resources for green projects and private sector-led growth, positioning sustainable financing as a driver for national development.

Since 2020, Egypt has secured over $15.6 billion in development financing for the private sector, with more than 40% channeled to financial institutions. Al-Mashat also noted the importance of the Ministry’s partnership with the Federation of Egyptian Banks, including the newly launched "HAFIZ" platform, which connects banks with enterprises seeking financing and advisory services.

She praised the EBRD for its strong role in supporting Egypt’s financial sector, noting that more than 28% of the EBRD’s portfolio in Egypt is directed toward financial institutions. She also commended the Central Bank of Egypt and the Financial Regulatory Authority for fostering an enabling regulatory environment and encouraging innovative financial products.

Al-Mashat described the EBRD as a model of how international institutions can foster private sector engagement to accelerate climate and sustainable development goals, with more than 80% of its global financial portfolio supporting the financial sector.

She also pointed to Egypt’s "NWFE" platform—now recognized as a global example of integrated financing for sustainable development, as cited in recent international forums—as a mechanism that could benefit other developing economies.

Turning to the broader economic outlook, Minister Al-Mashat reported that Egypt’s economy grew by 4.7% in the third quarter of the fiscal year, exceeding expectations. She cited positive indicators in tourism, industrial production, and private investment, noting that private sector investments now account for over 60% of total investment—boosting job creation and economic resilience.

The signing comes following a cooperation protocol between the Ministry and the Federation of Egyptian Banks to enhance partnerships between the banking sector and international development partners, particularly to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).