Ministry of Economy signs MoU with Egyptian Competition Authority enhancing cooperation in fields of competition & combating monopolistic practices

Both parties to benefit from UNCTAD's regional training centre for competition in Cairo

Abu Dhabi, 06 May 2025 - The Ministry of Economy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Egyptian Competition Authority (ECA) to enhance cooperation in the fields of competition protection and combating monopolistic practices, contributing to promoting a fair business environment in both countries. The signing took place on the sidelines of ECA's annual conference held in Egypt.

The MoU was signed by H.E. Safeya Hashem Al-Safi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Commercial Control and Governance Sector at the UAE Ministry of Economy, and Dr. Mahmoud Momtaz., Head of ECA.

H.E. Safeya said that the signing of the MoU reflects the Ministry of Economy's commitment to expanding its regional and international partnerships in the field of competition, adding that cooperation with ECA will support efforts to achieve more market transparency, enhance investor confidence, and serve the interests of consumers in both countries.

The Assistant Undersecretary explained that the agreement is an effective framework for enhancing institutional cooperation between the two sides in the field of competition protection. It contributes to the development of relevant policies and procedures, positively impacting the business environment in both countries and empowering businesses to address monopolistic practices, as well as supporting efforts for sustainable economic development.

The MoU, which spans four years and is automatically renewable, stipulates cooperation on several fronts, including the exchange of experiences, knowledge, and best practices, the organization of training programs and joint workshops, as well as the exchange of information and specialized studies. Additionally, it aims to enhance capabilities in the areas of examining economic concentration processes and investigating violations. The MoU also allows both parties to benefit from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) centre for competition training for the Middle East and Africa region, based in Cairo.

The MoU falls within the framework of the growing relations between the UAE and Egypt, and supports joint efforts to enhance Arab economic integration, in line with the ‘We the UAE 2031' vision aimed at building a competitive, open, and sustainable economy, and Egypt Vision 2030, which seeks to establish a competitive and diversified knowledge-based economy.