The S&P Global Egypt PMI held steady at 47.2 in October 2026, indicating a continued contraction in non-oil private sector activity for the tenth consecutive month. Both output and new orders declined at their fastest pace in four months, reflecting subdued client demand, eroded purchasing power, and the impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East on business conditions.
Employment slipped back into contraction, ending a two-month spell of job creation, while outstanding business volumes fell for the first time since January. At the same time, input cost inflation quickened to a five-month high, fueled by rising prices for imported materials, energy, and shipping, alongside currency depreciation. In response, firms increased their selling prices at the fastest rate since June to offset higher operating expenses.
Looking ahead, business sentiment deteriorated further, dropping to a seven-month low as firms voiced heightened concerns over persistent inflation, ongoing geopolitical tensions, and continued supply chain disruptions.
