Egypt's Sports Sector Targeted to Reach 3% of GDP by 2032

Egypt is aiming to increase the contribution of the sports sector to gross domestic product to 3% by 2032, up from about 1.34% currently, as part of a broader strategy to commercialise the industry and attract private investment.

The target was outlined at the Akhbar El-Youm Economic Conference, where plans were also presented to expand the number of sports services companies to 4,500, compared with around 600 at present. The expansion is intended to support investment flows and increase the economic value generated by sports-related activities.

Figures shared during the session placed the plans within a global context. The global sports market is projected to grow from USD 485 billion in 2023 to USD 652 billion by 2028, representing an annual growth rate of 6.1%. Global sports tourism revenues are expected to reach USD 2.32 trillion by 2032, compared with USD 685 million in 2024. Support for the athletics industry and esports was highlighted as increasingly important amid global changes, with policies under way to encourage investment, create jobs and attract capital.

Hosting international championships and applying governance mechanisms across sports organisations were also cited as factors that strengthen confidence in the sector and enhance positioning as a regional destination for sports investment and event organisation.

International experiences in Gulf states, the United States, the United Kingdom and France were referenced as models for increasing economic returns through private-sector partnerships, sports industry development and the application of corporate governance within sports institutions.