Ever since the time of the dynasties of the pharaohs, mining has been part of the history of Egypt. Gold was mined mainly as alluvial gold and recovered either through conventional washing close to the Nile River or through dry sifting methods deeper in the desert. The gold of the pharaohs has also attracted a lot of mystery and superstitions and has fuelled treasure hunters for centuries. The decision of the Egyptian government to allow more foreign companies to explore and develop mining projects, has offered a boost to the mining industry, that to a large extent was underutilised. The most significant changes are related to elimination of a requirement to form joint ventures with the Egyptian government, and the capping of state royalties at 20%.
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