Egypt’s Trade Ministry pauses import ban following complaints

The Trade and Industry Ministry u-turned on its import ban on some electronic components on Wednesday, following criticism from businesses who were unable to obtain supplies, Masrawy reports.

On 20 June the ministry announced that it would ban imports of a range of goods — including spare parts for mobile phones and some home appliances — for all businesses except licensed factories which require them for production.

But following complaints from business owners, the ministry last week said it would press pause and consult with the Federation of Egyptian Chamber of Commerce.

The ministry postponed the ban for six months following a meeting with FEDCOC officials, chamber President Ibrahim El Araby told Akhbar El Yom.

It’s not just electronic components that were on the list: Home and office furniture, watches, clothes and textiles, kitchen utensils, toys, and a range of food and cosmetic goods were also subject to the import ban.