Imports have grown by around 15% annually since 2020, with supply mainly sourced from Mali and Senegal.
Industry participants note that market diversification and product quality remain key to sustaining export performance.
The five-day suspension showed how localized disputes can trigger broader market instability.
Looking ahead, El Sawy expects improved market confidence following the recent easing of US-Iran tensions.
As a result, the shortage is affecting close to 300 exporters and the oil processing sector.