Fitch: Egypt Climbs Five Spots in Economic Openness Index

Egypt has advanced five spots in Fitch’s Economic Openness Index within just three months, moving from 56th to 51st place out of 202 countries as of September 2025, reflecting a notable improvement in the country’s attractiveness to foreign investment and trade.

The index measures a nation’s openness to foreign investment and international trade, based on indicators such as the value of imports, exports, and foreign direct investment (FDI) as a share of GDP. 

Economies that offer broader access and fewer barriers to private and foreign companies receive higher rankings.

According to Fitch, investment will remain a key driver of Egypt’s growth, alongside a gradual expansion of exports. The agency expects a continued rise in FDI inflows, supported by Egypt’s diversified industrial base, wide range of commercial products, and growing opportunities across multiple sectors, all factors that enhance the country’s market appeal.

Fitch also highlighted significant progress in streamlining administrative procedures and offering investment incentives, citing the establishment of the Supreme Council for Investment and the implementation of the “Golden License” system as major steps toward improving the business environment.

The improvement coincides with the rollout of Egypt’s National Economic Development Narrative, a long-term strategy aimed at boosting private investment to 11.9% of GDP by fiscal year 2029/30, up from 5% in 2023/24. The plan also targets an increase in merchandise exports to $100 billion by 2029/30, compared to $32.5 billion in 2023/24.

Fitch’s latest report underscores growing confidence in Egypt’s reform trajectory, pointing to the country’s ongoing efforts to attract international investors, diversify its economy, and position itself as a competitive regional hub for trade and industry.