Egypt, Arab Republic of Poverty Rate

Egypt’s poverty rate fell dramatically from its all‑time peak of 7.10 % in 1990 to a trough of 0.00 % in 1999, and by 2021 the share of the population living below the national poverty line stood at 1.40 %, ranking it 44th globally. This decline reflects sustained macro‑economic reforms, expansion of social safety nets and improvements in employment over three decades, while the absence of poverty in 1999 suggests a temporary statistical artefact rather than a permanent eradication. The 2021 figure matches the current rates of Argentina and Jamaica, underscoring Egypt’s position among middle‑income economies that have compressed poverty to low single‑digit levels. Nevertheless, the modest increase from the 1999 trough indicates that vulnerable groups remain sensitive to external shocks such as inflation or fiscal tightening. Continued investment in inclusive growth and targeted transfers will be crucial to maintain the downward trajectory and prevent a reversal of gains.