Egypt’s Minister of Finance, Ahmed Kouchouk, participated in an open dialogue organized by the Federation of Egyptian Chambers of Commerce (FEDCOC) to officially launch the societal dialogue on the second package of tax facilitations.

 

During the session, the Minister emphasized that taxpayers are essential partners to the Ministry, underscoring its commitment to supporting business growth and strengthening competitiveness across sectors.

 

Kouchouk highlighted several achievements recorded over the past year, noting a 73% increase in private investment, alongside a EGP 600 billion rise in tax revenues without introducing any new burdens on taxpayers.

 

He added that the Ministry received 400,000 applications for tax dispute settlements and processed 650,000 new or amended tax returns, representing a total value of EGP 80 billion.

 

Taxpayers also voluntarily disclosed business activities amounting to approximately EGP 1 trillion annually. “This is the result of winning taxpayers’ trust,” the Minister said.

 

Reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to ongoing support for the business community, Kouchouk stressed the goal of establishing a tax system that is efficient, transparent, and encouraging for all stakeholders.

 

“Just as we launched the first package of tax facilitations last year, we are committed to holding open consultations with the business community to ensure the successful implementation of the second package,” he added.

 

He noted that the first package included temporary measures—now concluded—as well as permanent reforms such as the simplified tax system.

 

The Minister announced that the first 100,000 taxpayers who join the new tax system will enjoy several privileges, including financial support to expand their business activities.

 

A white list of compliant taxpayers will also be created to grant additional benefits, reinforcing the Ministry’s commitment to rewarding timely and compliant taxpayers.

 

Regarding the upcoming reforms, Kouchouk explained that the new package includes amendments to taxes imposed on holding companies and their subsidiaries to prevent double taxation.

 

The Ministry is also reviewing taxes on strategic projects to provide further support.

 

He announced that the Real Estate Tax Authority will soon adopt a completely revamped operational model.

 

“Taxpayers will be able to access comprehensive information about their tax obligations directly from their smartphones,” he said.

 

Kouchouk also highlighted the strong partnership between the Ministry of Finance and the Egyptian Exchange (EGX).

 

“We are working together to increase the number of listed companies and facilitate trading activities, which will stimulate market performance.

 

A special package of tax facilitations and incentives will be offered to companies that actively list on the Exchange and achieve measurable results,” he stated.

 

The Minister further noted that support will be extended to small, medium, and micro enterprises, including assistance in clearing bad debts and providing consultancy services for both newly established ventures and existing businesses seeking expansion through partnerships.

 

He also highlighted cooperation with the Ministry of Health to enhance the comprehensive health insurance system for citizens.

 

Kouchouk expressed appreciation for the dedication of the Tax Authority’s staff and reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to improving their training and work environment.

 

“Incentives for Tax Authority staff will be awarded based on performance and outcomes, not on the volume of tax revenues collected,” he stressed.

 

The Minister concluded by welcoming all proposals aimed at refining the second package of tax facilitations. “The Ministry is firmly committed to addressing challenges at their root, ensuring sustainable and long-term solutions,” he said.