At the invitation of Mr. Ahmed El-Wakil, President of the Federation of Egyptian Chambers of Commerce (FEDCOC), Dr. Mohamed Awad, Chairman of the Internal Trade Development Authority (ITDA), participated in a meeting held by Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development, with FEDCOC leaders and heads of regional chambers. The meeting aimed to discuss the new system for issuing public shop licenses and facilitating procedures for merchants.
The Minister confirmed that the state is working on simplifying licensing steps as part of efforts to integrate the informal economy into the formal sector. She explained that an electronic system has been activated, allowing merchants to apply for licenses using their national ID and attaching ownership or lease contracts. A temporary one-year license is issued until all necessary approvals are completed to obtain the permanent license.
Dr. Mohamed Awad emphasized that ITDA is keen to coordinate with the Ministry of Local Development and relevant authorities to support the regulation of commercial activities and facilitate licensing procedures. This contributes to encouraging shop owners to regularize their status and join the formal economy.
Mr. Ahmed El-Wakil, President of FEDCOC, praised the Ministry’s efforts in simplifying procedures and reducing fees. He stressed the importance of intensifying introductory meetings across governorates to explain the new system to merchants and encourage them to benefit from the provided facilities.
