Egypt food exports hit record US$3.77B in H1 as Arab, EU markets drive growth
The US$113 million increase made the EU the second-largest destination group, accounting for around 22% of total Egyptian food exports.
EGYPT – Egypt’s food industry has achieved a historic milestone, generating US$3.77 billion in revenue in the first half of 2026, the highest half-year export value on record, driven by expanded trade with Arab countries and the European Union.
According to Egypt’s Food Export Council, exports increased from approximately US$3.41 billion in the same period of 2025, with growth recorded across Arab countries, the European Union, the United States, and other global markets.
The top foods exported were Citrus fruits (such as oranges), fresh and frozen potatoes, frozen strawberries, olives, pasta, and food preparations.
Arab countries remained the largest destination for Egyptian food exports, with export value rising to approximately US$1.737 billion, up from US$1.588 billion in H1 2025, an increase of US$149 million, or nearly 9.4%.
Additionally, Arab markets accounted for approximately 46% of total Egyptian food exports during the first half of 2026, maintaining their importance in Egypt’s food trade.
Furthermore, food exports to European Union countries rose by more than 15%, from US$739 million in H1 2025 to approximately US$852 million in H1 2026. The US$113 million increase made the EU the second-largest destination group, accounting for around 22% of total Egyptian food exports.
The FEC attributed the growth to the expansion of Egyptian companies in European markets and their improved ability to meet technical requirements, quality standards, and food safety regulations. This alignment with strict quality and safety regulations has enabled Egyptian firms to access premium markets.
Exports to the United States rose to approximately US$255 million, compared with US$233 million in the corresponding period, representing growth of around 9.5% and accounting for approximately 7% of total sector exports.
On the other hand, food exports to non-Arab African countries reached approximately US$252 million, compared with US$251 million in H1 2025, accounting for around 7% t of total Egyptian food exports.
Meanwhile, exports to the rest of the world increased from US$604 million to approximately US$676 million, an increase of US$72 million or nearly 12%, representing approximately 18% of total food exports.
The primary drivers of Egypt’s record-breaking growth in food exports include strategic market diversification, improved compliance with international quality standards, and greater competitiveness in global markets.
Therefore, by expanding its global footprint, Egypt aims to foster sustainable economic growth and reduce its dependence on any single trading partner.
Finally, the sector’s performance reflects a surge in global competitiveness and international demand for Egyptian agricultural and food products, positioning Egypt as a major player in the global food trade.
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