Representing Egypt at the African Mining Indaba 2026, Karim Badawi, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, delivered a recorded speech at the Egypt Country Showcase. The Minister stated that Egypt views mining as a strategic pillar for economic diversification and industrial localization, through the Ministry’s third strategic pillar aimed at relaunching the Mining Sector’s potential and increasing its contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP) from approximately 1% to 6%.
Badawi highlighted recent structural reforms designed to create a competitive, investor-centric governance framework that meets international standards. Key initiatives include the implementation of transparent fiscal policies, the modernization of geological data, and the simplification of licensing workflows. By aligning mining activities with broader industrial strategies, Egypt aims to optimize value addition and drive superior economic returns.
According to the Minister, restructuring the Mineral Resources Authority into an independent economic body in June 2025 was a turning point. Now known as the Mineral Resources and Mining Industries Authority (MRMIA), the entity possesses the authority needed to manage exploration, localize manufacturing, and improve transparency for global investors.
Badawi noted that Egypt has adopted a new, competitive model for mineral exploitation designed to enhance its appeal to mining investors. He further added that efforts are underway to establish a comprehensive geological database and conduct Egypt’s first nationwide airborne geophysical survey in over four decades. Carried out in partnership with specialized international firms, this initiative aims to modernize geological data and de-risk investments in gold and mineral exploration.
The speech came as part of Egypt’s participation in the Indaba 2026 through a delegation from the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources. During the accompanying exhibition, the delegation also participated in the Egyptian Mining Sector pavilion. They held a series of meetings with Australian and Canadian firms—including the Australian companies BHP and Worley, and the Canadian firm Empire—regarding their interest in entering the Egyptian market and establishing strategic investment partnerships.
Discussions highlighted the competitive strengths of the Egyptian mining industry and its high-growth potential. Both parties explored avenues for future collaboration, concluding with an agreement to organize site visits to Egypt to evaluate available investment opportunities on the ground.
