Buying or leasing a factory in Egypt as a foreign investor
A foreign company can own up to 100% of a factory in Egypt in most sectors under Investment Law 72 of 2017, and can employ foreign staff up to 10% of the workforce. In 10th of Ramadan City, the median asking price for a ready-built factory is about EGP 20,202 per m², and the median rent about EGP 161 per m² per month.
Why leasing first often makes sense
- A ready-built factory saves the months of construction, licensing and power connection.
- Many investors start by leasing, or with contract manufacturing, while the company and permits are set up, then decide on a purchase.
Questions from foreign investors
Can a foreign company own a factory in Egypt?
Yes. Investment Law 72 of 2017 allows up to 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, and Article 55 lets an investor own the real estate the project needs regardless of nationality, except in Sinai.
How many foreign employees can a factory in Egypt hire?
Up to 10% of the workforce, under Ministerial Decree 279 of 2025 issued under Labour Law 14 of 2025. Work permit fees range from EGP 5,000 to 150,000, and permits last 1 to 3 years.
What does a factory worker cost in Egypt in 2026?
The private-sector minimum wage is EGP 7,000 a month, and the employer pays 18.75% social insurance on the insured wage, which ranges from EGP 2,700 to 16,700 in 2026.
What is the industrial gas price in Egypt?
Since 1 May 2026, under Prime Ministerial Decree 1306 of 2026, gas for most industries costs USD 6.75 per MMBtu, 7.75 for steel and petrochemicals, and 14 for cement.
Where is 10th of Ramadan City?
An industrial city in Sharqia on the Cairo–Ismailia desert road, about 46 km from Cairo, established by Presidential Decree 249 of 1977. Its industrial zones are numbered A1 to A6, B1 to B4 and C1 to C8.