EGYPT – Egypt is considering expanding its wheat import sources to include Türkiye and other countries, according to Hossam El Grahy, Vice Chairman of the General Authority for Supply Commodities (GASC).

This move is part of Egypt’s broader strategy to diversify its grain supply amid global market fluctuations and ensure food security.

Egypt, the world’s largest wheat importer, traditionally sources its wheat from countries such as Russia and Ukraine.

However, the ongoing conflict between these two major exporters has prompted Egypt to seek alternative suppliers. Türkiye, with its proximity and growing role in global grain markets, has emerged as a potential new partner.

This comes after the Ministry of Supply and Internal Trade reported that during the 2024 supply season, Egypt received 3.6 million tons of local wheat from farmers.

The country had set aside 44 billion Egyptian pounds (approximately US$922.4 million) to finance the purchase of locally produced wheat from farmers, according to Mohamed Maait, Egypt’s Minister of Finance.

However, Egypt has set plans to boost its strategic reserves, announcing record-breaking wheat tender of 3.8 million metric tons amid economic struggles.

Despite aiming to lock in lower wheat prices through what was intended to be its largest-ever tender, traders in Europe and the Middle East argue that GASC could only finalize purchases for a fraction of its requirements.

The GASC later announced that it is in advanced discussions to purchase up to 1.8 million metric tons of wheat from global suppliers, including Russia.

El Grahy, however, stated in an interview with Asharq Business that Egypt’s strategic reserves of wheat are sufficient to last for 6.3 months.

The country also maintains healthy reserves of other essential commodities, with sugar reserves sufficient for 13 months, cooking oil for 6.2 months, frozen and fresh meat for 10 months, and poultry for 10 months.

These reserves provide a buffer against supply chain disruptions and price volatility, ensuring the stability of essential food supplies.

Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.