The Egyptian Senate approved the activation of the "right of public performance" for artists on June 25, 2026 [2].
This move shifts the financial dynamics of the Egyptian entertainment industry by requiring production companies to pay royalties to performers. While intended to protect creators, the implementation has created a rift between the Actors' Syndicate and the producers who fund these works.
The right is rooted in Egypt's Intellectual Property Law from 2002 [1]. Under this legal framework, artists are entitled to compensation when their performances are broadcast or played in public spaces. Senator Yasser Galal, who is also an actor, said the approval serves as real support for artists [2].
However, the transition has not been seamless. Production companies argue that these new fees create an undue financial burden and could potentially disrupt production schedules. The tension escalated into a public controversy in early July, as detailed in reports from July 9 [3].
The dispute became personal when producer Ahmed El-Sebky became embroiled in the conflict. Following the public outcry and the legal pressure surrounding the activation of these rights, El-Sebky said he apologized to Yasser Galal [3].
The Actors' Syndicate continues to push for the full enforcement of the 2002 law to ensure that performers receive fair compensation for the long-term use of their work. Producers, meanwhile, remain concerned that the added costs will hinder the industry's ability to launch new projects in a volatile economic climate.
“The approval serves as real support for artists.”
The activation of this dormant 2002 law represents a significant pivot toward creator-centric economics in Egypt. By enforcing public performance rights, the state is prioritizing the long-term intellectual property rights of individuals over the immediate profit margins of production houses, which may lead to a restructuring of how entertainment contracts are negotiated in the region.
