The Chamber had earlier launched a trader training programme on e-invoicing, taken up by more than 2,100 participants across six governorates.
He added that stock turnover improved by close to 12% over the last quarter, but that the cost of finance remains the first obstacle to expansion in the governorates.
The figures in brief
A number of importers argue that the proposed timetable needs a transition period of at least six months, so that small businesses can adapt their accounting systems.
Every day of delay in customs release costs an importer more than any tax cut saves him.
Chamber figures put the number of registered businesses at 41,000, up by 3,400 on last year, most of them in retail and logistics.
How the decision came about
- the financial-inclusion drive for traders among next quarter’s priorities
- A review of the timetable with the trade divisions
- A monthly report to the federation’s board
The meeting closed by forming a joint Chamber–ministry committee, meeting weekly to follow implementation and reporting monthly to the federation’s board.
Ahmed El-Shahbandar
Samy Guirguis
Hala Soliman