Egypt approves approves internet e-signature draft law

The Egyptian Cabinet yesterday approved the e-signature draft law in its meeting led by Prime Minister Atef Ebeid.

According to the draft law, which symbolizes a bid to keep abreast of the growth in e-commerce, electronic signatures and handwritten signatures will be considered equally valid by a court of law.

The new law would enable Egypt to gain access to international trade, of which the e-commerce is an increasingly important feature.

"E-commerce would be afforded a legal base in Egypt, which would lead to increased trade volume," Cabinet secretary-general Dr. Safwat El-Nahas said following the meeting.

"The new law could be applied to e-government and e banking," he added.