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Start a Business in Egypt as a Chinese Investor – Complete Setup Guide
Learn how Chinese investors can start a business in Egypt: legal steps, required documents, certified translation, registration procedures, and tips for success.
How to Set Up a Business in Egypt as a Chinese Investor
Why Egypt is Ideal for Chinese Business Owners
Egypt provides one of the most open and foreign-investor-friendly environments in the Middle East and Africa. With deep economic ties to China, an educated workforce, and multiple investment zones, it’s no surprise that many Chinese entrepreneurs are launching companies in Egypt across industries from manufacturing to technology.
Whether you’re setting up a limited liability company (LLC), a representative office, or a joint venture, Egypt offers flexible legal frameworks and practical support via GAFI (General Authority for Investment and Free Zones).
Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Business in Egypt
Step 1: Choose the Right Company Type
Chinese investors can select from several business forms:
Limited Liability Company (LLC) – most common form, allowing 100% foreign ownership.
Joint Stock Company – suitable for larger projects requiring capital and shareholders.
Branch Office – allows a foreign company to operate under its original name.
Representative Office – non-commercial, used for market research or liaison.
Each type has different legal requirements and capital thresholds.
Step 2: Reserve the Company Name
You must select a unique company name in Arabic and English. The name should not conflict with existing trademarks or company registrations.
Done at GAFI’s Investor Service Center.
Can be completed online or through a legal agent.
Usually takes 1–3 business days.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
Typical required documents include:
Passport copies of Chinese shareholders.
Power of Attorney for legal representative.
Articles of incorporation (translated into Arabic).
Bank certificate of deposited capital.
Lease contract of office location in Egypt.
Board resolution (if applicable).
All non-Arabic documents must be translated into Arabic by a certified translation office and legally attested.
Step 4: Submit Application to GAFI
Your legal representative (or agent) will submit your incorporation documents to GAFI, either online or in person.
Processing time:
5–7 business days for standard LLC registration
Quicker for branches or representative offices
You will receive:
Commercial Registration Certificate (CR).
Tax Card Number.
Chamber of Commerce certificate.
Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account
After registration, you’ll open a corporate account at an Egyptian bank to manage capital deposits and operational transactions.
Major banks used by Chinese investors include:
Bank of China (via local partnerships).
National Bank of Egypt.
Commercial International Bank (CIB).
Step 6: Obtain Additional Licenses
Depending on your business activity, you may need additional permits from:
Industrial Development Authority (IDA).
Ministry of Communications.
Ministry of Tourism.
Tax Authority.
Export/Import Authority.
A local legal advisor or business consultant can help you navigate sector-specific licensing.
Estimated Setup Costs and Time
| Item | Estimated Cost (EGP) | Notes |
| Name Reservation | 100–300 | One-time fee |
| Company Registration (LLC) | 1,500–3,000 | Based on capital and structure |
| Legal Translation & Attestation | 2,000–5,000+ | Varies by document volume |
| Office Lease (3–6 months min) | 20,000–100,000+ | Depending on location |
| Bank Deposit (Min. Capital) | 50,000+ | Refundable; per company type |
Setup Time: 2 to 4 weeks.
Translation Requirements for Chinese Investors
Egyptian authorities require all company formation documents to be submitted in Arabic, and they must be translated and stamped by certified providers.
Examples of documents requiring translation:
Chinese company registration documents.
Board resolutions and power of attorney.
Feasibility studies and contracts.
Personal documents (passport, visa, etc.).
At COT Translation Services, we specialize in assisting Chinese businesses with:
Accurate Arabic translation of business documents.
Legal certifications accepted by Egyptian authorities.
Fast delivery and expert handling of technical terminology.
Tips for a Smooth Business Setup
Hire a local business consultant or legal advisor familiar with Chinese investment.
Translate and legalize your documents early to avoid delays.
Choose an experienced translation office that understands Chinese business needs.
Consider setting up in an investment zone for tax and customs benefits.
Stay updated on bilateral agreements between China and Egypt.
FAQs
Can Chinese citizens own 100% of an Egyptian company?
Yes, most sectors allow 100% foreign ownership, especially in Free Zones and under Law 72/2017.
Do I need to be physically present in Egypt to register a company?
No. You can appoint a legal representative or consultant through a notarized Power of Attorney.
Are translation services mandatory for Chinese documents?
Yes. All official documents must be translated into Arabic by certified translation offices for GAFI and other authorities.
Can I get tax exemptions as a Chinese investor?
Yes. Egypt provides tax holidays and reductions for certain industries and geographic areas.
Conclusion
Egypt offers unmatched potential for Chinese investors seeking to expand into Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. With a simplified registration process, government support, and strategic location, now is the time to explore business opportunities in Egypt.
Let COT Translation Services be your trusted language partner every step of the way.
Call Us or Send the document via WhatsApp
Visit: www.cottranslation.com
Branches: Maadi – Downtown – Mohandessin
