Egypt’s food industry exports surged to approximately $5.5 billion in the first 11 months of 2024, reflecting a 17% increase from the $4.7 billion recorded during the same period in 2023. This $813 million rise represents the highest export value and growth rate for this timeframe, surpassing the total exports for all of 2023, which stood at $5.068 billion. The Export Council for Food Industries reported that Arab countries remained Egypt’s largest export market, accounting for $2.936 billion, or 53% of total food exports, with a 15% growth in value.
The European Union followed with $1.083 billion, representing 20% of total exports and a 33% growth rate. Non-Arab African countries contributed $464 million (8% of total exports) with a 7% growth rate, while the United States recorded $302 million in exports (5% of the total) with a 40% growth rate. Other international markets added $756 million, accounting for 14% of total exports, with an 8% growth rate.
Key export commodities during this period included soft drink concentrates, valued at $463 million, reflecting an 8% growth; flour and semolina at $401 million, with a 5% growth; frozen strawberries totaling $353 million, showing a 15% increase; and sugar at $339 million, despite a 19% decline. Other notable exports were juices ($245 million, 79% growth), cooking oils ($245 million, 155% growth), frozen vegetables ($214 million, 27% growth), biscuits and cereal preparations ($209 million, 21% growth), table olives ($199 million, 74% growth), and frozen potatoes ($187 million, 898% growth).
These figures highlight Egypt’s diverse and growing agricultural and processed food output, as reported by local media. Over the decade from 2014 to November 2024, Egypt’s food industry exports totaled approximately $40.5 billion, emphasizing the sector’s vital role in boosting global trade and economic performance. Data from the Export Council for Food Industries reveals that this growth has been supported by expanded production capacity, enhanced quality standards, and market-focused trade policies.
The report also attributed the surge to strengthened trade relations and increased market access. Officials anticipate this positive trajectory will continue into 2025, further enhancing the food industry’s contribution to Egypt’s export portfolio and foreign exchange earnings. With continued efforts to expand global partnerships and diversify export destinations, Egypt’s food industry remains a key pillar of the national economy, reflecting the country’s competitive position in international markets. – By MENA Newswire News Desk.