The logistics bottlenecks threaten the grain flow of the world’s top wheat buyer, exposing the country’s bread subsidy program to surging import costs.
The agreement is designed to provide Egypt with a reliable and sustained supply of imported wheat, a critical commodity for the country’s food-security system.
Egypt’s domestic wheat procurement rose nearly 20% from last year, but the government said it surpassed its target after adding durum wheat and seed stocks.
Better harvests across the region could reduce import demand, although North Africa will still rely on overseas supplies to meet consumption.
Lower global wheat prices, stronger local production and rising private sector imports are expected to reduce Egypt’s wheat purchases in the coming marketing year.