Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Egypt’s parliament has given final approval to a government-backed bill amending key provisions of the country’s nuclear and radiological activities law, in a move aimed at tightening oversight and modernizing the legal framework governing one of the most sensitive strategic sectors.
The amendments update Law No. 7 of 2010 and are designed to strengthen the role of the Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Authority by enhancing its supervisory capacity and closing legal gaps revealed through years of practical application.
Lawmakers said the revisions were necessary to improve regulatory clarity and ensure more effective control over nuclear and radiological activities in Egypt.
Stronger oversight and clearer definitions
One of the central changes involves refining the definition of radiological facilities to prevent broad or inconsistent interpretation. The goal is to clearly distinguish between entities using radiation sources and those that fall directly under nuclear regulatory supervision.
The amendments also expand the authority’s ability to enforce compliance, including granting administrative seizure powers to recover dues classified as public funds.
Updated fees and financial structure
The law introduces a comprehensive update to the fee structure for licenses, permits, and approvals, aligning them with current economic conditions while remaining within constitutional limits.
Authorities say the revised system is intended to strengthen the financial independence of the regulatory body, enabling it to perform technical and oversight functions more efficiently without placing unnecessary burdens on users.
Protection for the medical sector
A key exemption was introduced for the healthcare sector, with X-ray devices and radioactive isotopes used in medical applications excluded from the new fees.
Lawmakers emphasized that the measure ensures patients and healthcare providers are not exposed to additional financial pressure, preserving access to essential diagnostic and treatment services.
Tighter control over nuclear materials
The amendments impose stricter requirements on the manufacturing of components related to nuclear safety, requiring prior licensing from the regulatory authority for any such activity within Egypt.
They also reinforce controls over the import, export, and handling of radioactive materials, mandating prior approval and introducing tougher penalties for violations, including fines and imprisonment.
Legal flexibility and enforcement tools
The updated law allows for settlement in certain violations after corrective measures are taken, subject to defined legal conditions. This approach aims to balance enforcement with regulatory flexibility while maintaining deterrence.
Part of a broader nuclear push
The legislative update comes against the backdrop of Egypt’s long-standing nuclear energy ambitions, which include renewed investment in civilian nuclear power and major infrastructure projects such as the Dabaa nuclear plant.
Officials describe the amendments as part of a broader effort to align Egypt’s nuclear governance framework with international standards and evolving technological requirements.
Bottom line
The approval marks a significant step in modernizing Egypt’s nuclear regulatory system, strengthening state oversight while preparing the sector for expanded civilian nuclear activity in the years ahead.
