Egypt's Ministry of Supply and Internal Trade has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency to convert state-subsidised outlets into the ‘CARRY ON’ franchise chain. The deal includes financing for new youth-managed branches and aims to improve access to commodities.
The agreement, signed on 11 May 2026 by the Food Industries Holding Company and MSMEDA, targets the rehabilitation of existing supply grocers and ‘Gamaeiti’ project outlets. Minister of Supply and Internal Trade Sherif Farouk said the initiative will apply unified operational and design standards to ensure steady availability of subsidised and free-market goods at suitable prices.
MSMEDA will offer financial support and training in entrepreneurship, management and marketing to both current owners and young entrepreneurs. Chief Executive Basil Rahmy noted that feasibility studies will be reviewed and digital links will connect MSMEDA offices with the Internal Trade Development Authority for easier licensing and data exchange.
A joint committee will monitor progress across governorates using indicators such as the number of outlets developed, jobs created and services delivered. Member of Parliament Mohamed El-Garhy, head of the SMEs Committee, said the project will connect small enterprises to the internal trade and food security system.