Egypt’s food exports rise 7.1% to $2.43B in first 4 months of 2026

The growth reflects the sector’s continued strength in international markets and its ability to sustain export momentum despite global trade challenges.

By: Business Today Staff

Thu, Jun. 25, 2026

Egypt’s food industry exports increased by 7.1% during the first four months of 2026, reaching approximately $2.43 billion, compared with $2.27 billion in the same period of 2025.

The growth reflects the sector’s continued strength in international markets and its ability to sustain export momentum despite global trade challenges.

According to the Food Export Council, several key markets recorded notable growth between January and April 2026. Spain ranked as the fastest-growing destination, with Egyptian food exports more than doubling from $51 million to $103 million, representing growth of 103%.

Saudi Arabia maintained its position as one of the largest markets for Egyptian food exports, with shipments rising from $177 million to $213 million, an increase of 21%.

Exports to Palestine rose by 47% to $81 million, while exports to China increased by 42% to $82 million, highlighting Egypt’s expanding presence across Arab and Asian markets.

The UK market also recorded strong growth, with exports increasing by 61% from $38 million to $61 million. Exports to Jordan rose by 22% to $110 million, while shipments to Iraq increased by 26% to $87 million.

Egyptian food exports to the United States grew by 11%, reaching $160 million, while exports to Yemen rose by 29% to $50 million. Tunisia posted growth of 77%, with exports increasing from $13 million to $22 million.

Together, these markets accounted for around 40% of Egypt’s total food industry exports during the first four months of 2026, reaching a combined value of $969 million, compared with $734 million in the same period of 2025—an increase of approximately $235 million.

The Food Export Council said the figures demonstrate Egyptian companies’ growing competitiveness in overseas markets and the expanding reach of Egyptian food products, supporting the country’s broader objective of increasing exports and maximizing value from high-added-value productive sectors.