The effort being made with the administrative authorities is a waste of time, Qassem claims, adding that efforts would be better directed in the areas of production and marketing. Moreover, there is a reluctance by banks to finance export projects, in addition to the lack of proper insurance for export risks, he said. Qassem also complained of the absence of incentives such as tax rebates, whereby an exporter is refunded all the taxes and duties that go into the component of the product at the point of exportation, including, for example, electricity bills or sales taxes. In Qassem's opinion, that system is very effective in encouraging exporters. Not yet applied in Egypt, the incentives will make Egyptian producers more capable of competing with their counterparts in other countries.
Competitiveness is a result of efficiency, work ethics and an easy administrative system.
These result in better quality products, price and delivery. Industries which hold a promising future are ready-made garments, leather products, furniture, fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, candies and sweets and canned food. Aside from these traditional sectors, there are new areas, such as information technology, that have an export potential. We have the skilled labour and engineers. It's a brain ware industry.