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Attracting Global Manufacturers and Leveraging Local Talent are Key to Economic Growth and International Competitiveness

Somabay, Egypt – October 2026: Egypt has the potential to strengthen its standing on the global stage by building a compelling national brand, attracting international manufacturers, and making greater use of its vast human capital. These were among the key points raised by H.E. Boris Tadić, former President of Serbia and former Minister of Defense, during a fireside chat moderated by Lamia Kamel, Founder of Narrative Summit, Managing Director of CC Plus, and Co-Founder of The Global Narrative, at the Summit’s 10th edition in Somabay that took place from the 13-15 October.

The 10th edition of the Summit is held under the auspices of the Ministry of Industry, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade, and the Ministry of Finance, alongside the Egyptian Tourism Authority (Experience Egypt) and the State Information Service.

Reflecting on the origins of Narrative Summit, Tadić recalled Kamel’s initial vision of creating a platform that would help build Egypt’s national brand, noting that the country’s significance on the global stage makes this ambition particularly important. He emphasized that effective branding and communication are essential for countries to establish their identity, strengthen their international presence, and realize their full potential.

Tadić also stressed that national branding must extend beyond tourism to encompass Egypt’s industrial and economic ambitions. While the country’s natural assets, including its sunshine and coastlines along two seas, offer considerable tourism potential, he argued that its population of more than 110 million represents an equally significant source of strength.

In response to a question from Lamia Kamel about leveraging Egypt’s strengths to enhance its global standing, Tadić explained that attracting global companies to establish manufacturing and production operations in Egypt would reflect their confidence in the Egyptian market while supporting industrial development.

He further highlighted the importance of maintaining clear standards of quality and sustainability to build the confidence needed to attract and retain global businesses. Such efforts, alongside effective communication of Egypt’s capabilities, could help position the country as a destination for business seeking to establish a lasting presence.

Beyond its industrial potential, Tadić praised Egypt’s achievements across science, medicine, and culture, expressing admiration for the country’s talent and expertise. He emphasized the need to connect these accomplished individuals with the wider population, enabling more Egyptians to benefit from the country’s knowledge, capabilities, and opportunities.

The fireside chat explored the relationship between national branding, economic development, and global competitiveness, reinforcing the importance of presenting a comprehensive picture of Egypt that reflects not only its history and tourism appeal, but also its people, industrial potential, and capacity to contribute to the global economy.