While consumers worldwide prepare for Black Friday shopping sprees, Egyptian shoppers eagerly anticipate their own version of the shopping extravaganza—White Friday. Since Amazon launched its Egyptian marketplace in September 2021, this emerging market has captured the attention of international sellers looking to expand their reach.
The rise of Amazon Egypt presents significant opportunities for both local businesses undergoing digital transformation and global sellers seeking new markets. With the year-end shopping season approaching, Amazon has increased its investment in the Egyptian platform, encouraging more sellers to join. But what does it take to register successfully on Amazon Egypt?
1. Registration Requirements: Essential Documentation
To open a store on Amazon Egypt, sellers must prepare and upload the following documents to Sellercentral.amazon.eg:
- Identification: Valid national/resident ID card for the business owner or company representative.
- Email address: An active email account for receiving Amazon notifications.
- Phone number: A working mobile number for verification purposes.
- Tax information: Egyptian Tax Registration Number (TRN) and VAT registration certificate copy. These can be submitted within 90 days after registration.
- Business credentials (for corporate accounts): Commercial registration documents showing the owner's or general manager's name. Authorized representatives must include a power of attorney in the same PDF file.
2. Special Considerations for International Sellers
Currently, Amazon Egypt has not officially opened registration to sellers based in China. To establish a presence, international sellers must possess a business license from either Egypt or Gulf Cooperation Council countries—a requirement that presents challenges for many foreign enterprises.
3. Logistics Options: FBA vs. FBM
Amazon Egypt offers two fulfillment methods:
- FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon): Products automatically qualify for Amazon Prime benefits, including fast and free next-day delivery. Sellers also gain access to Prime Day promotional events.
- FBM (Fulfillment by Merchant): Sellers manage their own inventory, packaging, and shipping. While offering greater flexibility, this method requires stronger operational capabilities.
4. Seizing Opportunities in Egypt's Growing Market
Despite current registration limitations for some international sellers, the Egyptian marketplace presents substantial growth potential. Businesses with access to Egyptian or Gulf-registered companies may leverage the upcoming White Friday season to establish an early presence. Others can monitor platform developments while preparing for future entry opportunities.
As e-commerce continues to expand in North Africa, Amazon Egypt represents a strategic gateway for sellers targeting this developing market.