EGYPT – Egypt’s agricultural sector has recorded a remarkable 25% increase in export volume in 2023, reflecting the sector’s growing efficiency and international reach.
Agriculture is a crucial component of the Egyptian economy. It contributes around 11% to the GDP and employs nearly 20% of the workforce.
Despite arable land constituting less than 5% of Egypt’s territory, the sector has proven to be one of the most productive on the African continent.
In a May 21 announcement, El-Sayed El-Quseir, Egypt’s Minister of Agriculture and Land Restoration, revealed that the country exported 7.5 million tonnes of agri-food products in 2023.
This figure marks a significant increase from the 6 million tonnes exported the previous year, setting a new record for the country.
The export surge in 2023 has translated into substantial financial gains for Egypt’s agricultural sector. Export revenues reached a staggering US$8.8 billion, with horticultural products contributing significantly, particularly oranges and strawberries.
These products accounted for 42% of the total revenue, equivalent to US$3.7 billion, while the remaining revenue largely came from processed agricultural products. This financial success further solidifies the sector’s role in Egypt’s economic development.
The success of Egypt’s agricultural sector in 2023 can be largely attributed to the proactive efforts of the Egyptian government.
Minister El-Quseir highlighted that the Year marked the export of 400 agricultural products to 160 countries, with Egyptian agricultural exports penetrating 93 new markets over the past decade.
This proactive approach has significantly enhanced market opportunities on the international stage, leading to the sector’s robust performance.
While the specific main destinations for these exports were not detailed, Russia, the European Union, and Gulf countries are well-known traditional markets for Egyptian agricultural products.
These regions have consistently been significant consumers of Egypt’s agricultural exports, contributing to the sector’s robust performance.
In other news, President Abdel Fattah El Sisi has inaugurated the first phase of Egypt’s expansive agricultural development project, which aims to enhance the nation’s food security and reduce dependency on imports.
Dubbed ‘the Future of Egypt project,’ the project is overseen by the state’s Future of Egypt Authority and aims to reclaim approximately 1.8 million hectares of land by 2030.
It encompasses modernizing irrigation systems, amplifying agricultural production, and fostering self-sufficiency in key commodities.
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