Egypt steps up global mining ambitions with major agreements

In a bold stride to reshape its position on the global mining map, Egypt has inked two significant agreements with leading international mining firms—part of a broader strategy to unlock the nation’s mineral wealth and diversify its economy beyond traditional sectors.

Overseen by Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Karim Badawi, the deals were finalized during the 2025 Egypt Mining Forum. 

The event, a key platform for industry stakeholders, reflects the state’s ongoing push to cultivate a more dynamic and investor-friendly environment in its mining sector.

The first agreement grants exploration rights for gold and other associated minerals. 

It brings together the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, the Egyptian Mineral Resources Authority (EMRA), and Centamin Central—an affiliate of AngloGold Ashanti, one of the world’s foremost gold producers.

The second pact, a framework agreement with Canadian-based Barrick Gold, sets the stage for an extended collaboration on mineral exploration in Egypt. 

Though still in the early stages, the agreement lays vital legal and logistical foundations for deeper engagement with one of the mining industry’s biggest players.

Both deals were signed by EMRA Chairperson Yasser Ramadan on behalf of the Egyptian government. Joining him were Centamin Central’s Chairperson Mohamed Kamal and Barrick’s regional director Henry Onslow, as well as officials from Egypt’s Ministry of Petroleum.

A Renewed Focus on Mining

These developments reflect a renewed national focus on mining—a sector with vast untapped potential in Egypt. While the country is better known for its oil and gas output, officials are increasingly turning attention to the mineral-rich landscapes of the Eastern Desert and Sinai Peninsula.

Egypt’s mining sector has long been underutilized, in part due to outdated regulations, lack of investment incentives, and limited geological surveying. 

But over the past few years, reforms have been underway to overhaul the mining law, modernize licensing processes, and provide more transparent mechanisms for profit-sharing.

The government’s strategic partnerships with mining giants like Centamin and Barrick are expected to bring not only capital but also technological expertise and modern exploration techniques. 

Centamin already operates Egypt’s largest gold mine at Sukari—one of the few large-scale gold mines in the Middle East—producing hundreds of thousands of ounces annually and contributing significantly to state revenues.

Now, Egypt is seeking to replicate that success across other regions. The potential goes far beyond gold: the country is also home to copper, phosphate, iron ore, tantalum, and rare earth minerals, which are in high demand globally for everything from electronics to green energy technologies.

Building a Mining-Driven Future

By aligning with industry leaders, Egypt is not just attracting investment—it’s actively working to embed itself into global supply chains for strategic minerals. 

The new agreements mark more than symbolic gestures; they signal the emergence of a long-term vision in which mining becomes a cornerstone of economic development.

With a young labor force, abundant geological resources, and proximity to both African and European markets, Egypt is positioning itself as a regional mining hub. 

If it can follow through on reforms and infrastructure investments, these latest deals may prove to be the beginning of a much larger transformation.

In the words of one senior official at the forum, “Egypt is not just looking for miners—we’re looking for partners to build the future.”