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Cyprus Allocates €1.55 Billion in Development Expenditure for 2025

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 23, 2024

The government of Cyprus has outlined its development spending plans for 2025, allocating €1.55 billion to a range of projects aimed at fostering economic growth and improving infrastructure across the island. These expenditures form part of the state budget and represent a strategic investment in key sectors, including transportation, digital transformation, and social services, designed to enhance Cyprus’ long-term economic competitiveness.

This planned development expenditure marks a critical step in the government’s commitment to modernising the country’s infrastructure, supporting sustainable growth, and addressing both current and future economic challenges. The distribution of these funds will be crucial for driving development across multiple sectors and ensuring that Cyprus remains resilient in a rapidly changing global economy.

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Transportation and Infrastructure Upgrades

A significant portion of the allocated €1.55 billion will go towards major infrastructure projects, particularly in transportation. Investments in road networks, ports, and airports are expected to improve the efficiency of both domestic and international travel, which is vital for an island economy heavily reliant on tourism and trade.

Enhancing the country’s transportation infrastructure will not only boost accessibility and connectivity but also help reduce traffic congestion and improve safety on the roads. With the government aiming to promote greener alternatives, part of the budget will also be directed toward sustainable transport initiatives, such as electric vehicle infrastructure and improved public transportation services.

These investments in infrastructure are expected to enhance the country’s overall logistics and supply chain capabilities, providing long-term economic benefits, especially as Cyprus seeks to establish itself as a regional hub for trade and services.

Digital Transformation and Innovation

Cyprus is also focusing on digital transformation as part of its development strategy for 2025. A portion of the €1.55 billion will be channelled into expanding digital infrastructure, improving public sector services through digitalisation, and supporting innovation and entrepreneurship in the tech sector.

As digitalisation becomes a key driver of competitiveness in the global economy, Cyprus is positioning itself to harness the benefits of emerging technologies. This includes upgrading digital government services, fostering cybersecurity, and creating a more favourable environment for tech startups and innovation-driven enterprises. These investments will help Cyprus modernise its economy, increase efficiency, and attract foreign investment.

Egypt’s Suez Canal Economic Zone Draws $8.1B In Investments Through 255 Projects

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 4, 2025

Egypt’s Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZone) has secured an impressive $8.1 billion in investments across 255 projects in the last 30 months, according to an official announcement on Monday.

Major Investment Boost For SCZone

The General Authority for the SCZone has successfully attracted 251 projects in its industrial zones and ports, accumulating $6.2 billion in capital investments, which has resulted in around 28,000 new jobs, as stated by SCZone Chairman Walid Gamal El-Din.

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Additionally, four new projects have brought in $1.8 billion in investments, boosting the total capital inflows within the zone. These developments were discussed in a meeting with Mohamed Zaki El Sewedy, Chairman of the Federation of Egyptian Industries (FEI), and other officials from various chambers of commerce.

Strengthening Industrial Ties And Opportunities

The meeting focused on expanding investment prospects, fostering collaboration, and addressing challenges faced by industrial firms with strong export potential. A key objective was to encourage businesses to scale up their operations within the SCZone, leveraging its prime location, advanced infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies.

El-Din stressed the importance of the SCZone in driving Egypt’s economic growth and industrial transformation, citing the Ain Sokhna Integrated Industrial Zone as a flagship example of development. This zone is a testament to Egypt’s growing presence as a competitive global manufacturing hub.

The continued partnership between the SCZone and the private sector, El-Din noted, plays a pivotal role in building a strong ‘Made in Egypt’ brand, supporting local industrial development, and boosting innovation to improve Egypt’s position in global markets.

Acknowledging Achievements And Future Collaboration

El Sewedy praised the SCZone for its efforts in creating a robust investment climate, offering comprehensive services, incentives, and cutting-edge infrastructure. This meeting marked the beginning of a deeper collaboration between the SCZone and FEI, setting the stage for future joint initiatives.

Egypt’s Economic Outlook

Egypt’s economy is projected to grow by 4% in the year leading up to June, bolstered by supportive measures from the IMF, according to a Reuters poll conducted in January 2025. The poll also forecasts a GDP growth acceleration to 4.7% in 2025-26 and 5% in 2026-27.

However, the country’s GDP growth slowed to 2.4% in 2023-24, down from 3.8% in the previous year, primarily due to the ongoing currency crisis and the geopolitical impact of the war in neighboring Gaza, according to the Central Bank of Egypt.