Egypt’s processed food exports hit record US$6.1B in 2024, marking 21% growth

EGYPT – Egypt’s processed food exports reached an unprecedented US$6.1 billion in 2024, marking a 21% increase from the previous year, according to the Food Export Council (FEC).

This milestone underscores the growing global demand for Egyptian food products and highlights the nation’s expanding influence in international markets.

The most exported Egyptian processed food products in 2024 included soft drink concentrates, flour and semolina, sugar, frozen strawberries, edible oils, fruit juices, frozen vegetables, and frozen potatoes.

FEC Chairman Mahmoud Bazan emphasized the significance of this achievement.

 “This is the highest export value in the history of the sector, reaffirming the competitiveness of Egyptian food products in global markets, supported by government efforts to enhance non-oil exports,” he stated.

Arab countries remained the primary importers of Egyptian processed foods, purchasing approximately US$3.28 billion worth of products in 2024. This figure represents 54% of Egypt’s total processed food exports and signifies a 20% growth compared to 2023.

The European Union emerged as the second-largest importer, with imports totaling about US$1.17 billion, accounting for 19% of the total exports and reflecting a notable 32% increase from the previous year.

Non-Arab African countries followed, importing goods worth US$513 million, which constitutes 8% of the total exports and indicates a 10% growth.

Among individual countries, Saudi Arabia led with imports valued at US$491 million, followed by Sudan, Libya, the United States, and Palestine. The Netherlands recorded the most significant year-on-year growth, with imports more than doubling to US$259 million in 2024.

Over the past decade, from 2014 to 2024, Egypt’s food industry exports have accumulated to an impressive US$41.1 billion, reflecting the sector’s robust growth and global competitiveness.

The Egyptian government’s strategic initiatives have played a pivotal role in this success. Policies implemented in 2016 prioritized food ingredient imports to bolster the country’s food processing capabilities, aiming to position Egypt as North Africa’s leading food processing hub.

Looking ahead, the FEC has set ambitious targets, aiming for a 15% annual growth rate in processed food exports. The council’s strategy focuses on enhancing product quality, expanding market reach, and strengthening the global presence of Egyptian food products.

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