Achieving sustainable industrialisation in Egypt: assessment of the potential for EIPs

Abstract

This paper explores the prospects of Egypt in achieving sustainable development goal 9 (sustainable industrialisation). It looks at the national policy efforts of the new government and finds that environmentally-sound industrial production and overall sustainable industrial development is a priority in the country's vision. The analysis then takes a closer look at three case studies of attempts of the Egyptian Government to promote sustainable industrial development by establishing or developing eco-industrial parks (Robbiki Eco-Leather Park, El-Safaa Metal Foundries Zone and Shaq Al-Thu'ban Marble Technology Park). The analysis of the three cases outlines a number of factors impeding the success of these attempts; including weak policy and regulatory frameworks, lack of strong enforcement mechanisms, poor planning, lack of financial resources to support the relocation of most vulnerable (smallest) enterprises and the negative impact of informal economy and criminal elements. The paper concludes with several recommendations to overcome these obstacles.