Egypt wheat output set to rise 6.5% in 2026/27 season
Higher planting area and better prices push growth as government targets stronger local supply.
EGYPT – Egypt expects its wheat production to rise by 6.5% year on year to reach 9.8 million tonnes in the 2026/2027 season, according to new data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
The report links this growth to an increase in planted land, which now covers about 3.6 million feddans. Higher state purchase prices have also pushed farmers to grow more wheat and sell to the government.
The Cabinet’s media center said the state continues to support farmers through better seed varieties and stronger extension services. Officials also supply certified seeds and guide farmers on improved practices.
The government has set up demonstration fields and uses raised-bed farming to improve yields. It has also expanded storage capacity by building more silos and upgrading older facilities.
An official said these efforts aim to secure the country’s food needs. “We are working to raise local production and reduce reliance on imports,” the official stated.
As a result, wheat imports may drop to about 12.5 million tonnes, showing a shift toward local supply.
Harvest season and procurement plans
Egypt will start harvesting wheat in mid-April, beginning in Upper Egypt where warmer weather speeds up crop growth. Regions such as Aswan, Luxor, and Qena will lead before the harvest moves شمال to the Nile Delta.
Officials expect the process to continue in phases, with some new farming areas harvesting until mid-August. The government aims to collect between 4.5 and 5 million tonnes from local farmers.
Farmers planted more than 3.7 million feddans this season, which exceeded earlier targets. This increase supports the country’s bread program, which serves millions of people each day.
An official familiar with the plan said, “We want to make sure we collect as much local wheat as possible to support national food supply.”
To attract more farmers, the government raised the procurement price to 2,350 Egyptian pounds per ardeb, which equals about US$47. This price applies to wheat with a purity level of 23.5.
Another agriculture official said the move reflects global price trends. “The new price gives farmers a fair return and keeps local wheat competitive,” the official said.
These combined steps show Egypt’s focus on growing its own wheat and easing pressure on imports while keeping bread supply stable.
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