EBRD partners with Kuwaiti Agility to develop digital platform for Egypt's SCZone

Doaa A.Moneim , Wednesday 2 Oct 2024

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) inked on Wednesday a partnership agreement with Transfora, a business process automation company and a subsidiary of the Kuwaiti firm Agility, to develop a comprehensive digital platform for the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZone).

SCZone

 

The platform will serve as a one-stop service for businesses and investors in the SCZone, providing critical functionalities such as managing inquiries from potential investors, handling essential documentation, offering reporting and analytics capabilities, and facilitating access to more than 60 electronic services for both current and prospective investors.

Under the terms of the contract, the EBRD will finance the development and operation of the digital platform throughout the duration of the agreement. 

The EBRD is a multilateral development organization focused on promoting private sector growth and entrepreneurial initiatives across 36 countries and three continents.

This collaboration with Transfora enhances the Egyptian government’s efforts to transform the Suez region into a global hub for logistics and trade, according to Agility.

In addition, Agility will establish digital connectivity between SCZone authorities, customs officials, and regulatory bodies, facilitating seamless interactions with investors, transport companies, logistics service providers, and manufacturers operating in the region.

"This partnership will enhance the investment climate and strengthen the competitive advantages of both the Suez economy and Egypt, while fostering foreign investment and creating more job opportunities," said Khaled Hamza, Director of EBRD’s Egypt branch.

"We are eager to enhance collaboration with the EBRD, Agility, Transfora, and all stakeholders to ensure the creation of a competitive and attractive business environment for targeted investment projects. This is particularly relevant for digitizing all investor and logistics services, contributing to the integration of ports and industrial zones, and improving overall operational efficiency." according to Walid Gamal El-Din, Chairman of the SCZone.

Transfora’s platform is characterized by its low-code enterprise digital solution, which integrates both cloud and local systems, offering user-friendly customization options for all stakeholders. 

Agility, which owns Transfora, operates a range of global and regional companies and has made significant investments in the SCZone and Egypt.

Since 2022, Agility’s Economic Zones subsidiary has acted as the modernization and development partner for the SCZone, working to implement the strategic vision for logistics services and support for industrial areas. This includes establishing customs and logistics service centers in the region and automating customs operations and procedures with government authorities.

Beyond the Transfora project, the EBRD has provided financing, loans, and support for other development initiatives in Egypt, including projects in renewable energy, infrastructure, women’s entrepreneurship, and financing for small and medium-sized enterprises. 

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