Egypt Denies Suspending Exports to Gulf Countries, Confirms Trade Flow

The Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade denied reports circulating in some media outlets claiming that the government had decided to suspend Egyptian exports to Gulf countries, stressing that no such decision has been issued and export operations are continuing normally.

In a statement released on Sunday, the ministry confirmed that all relevant authorities are operating at full capacity to support the flow of Egyptian exports to international markets. It added that Safaga Port has become an alternative gateway for exports affected by the disruption of shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz.

The ministry noted that global trade movements may sometimes experience short-term and limited shipment delays due to fluctuations in shipping and insurance costs or logistical arrangements linked to regional developments. However, such issues are being managed with flexibility and efficiency within Egypt’s logistics and transport system.

Data on export movements through Egyptian ports indicates that export flows remain stable, reflecting the ability of Egypt’s foreign trade system to adapt to evolving logistical challenges.

Under the directives of Mohamed Farid Saleh, Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, relevant agencies are continuing efforts to provide logistical and procedural facilitation to support exporters and maintain the smooth flow of foreign trade.

Meanwhile, the General Organization for Export and Import Control, headed by Essam El‑Nagar, is working to streamline export inspection procedures and issue conformity certificates in coordination with port authorities and logistics operators, helping accelerate the clearance of export shipments.

The land–sea transport route between Safaga Port and Duba Port has recorded a significant increase in export activity between March 1 and March 15, 2026. The number of voyages rose to 38 trips carrying about 4,200 shipments totaling 105,000 tons of goods, compared with 25 trips transporting 2,406 shipments totaling 60,150 tons during the same period in 2025, representing growth of nearly 75%.

Shipping activity has also increased on the maritime route between Nuweiba Port and Port of Aqaba. The average number of trucks transported daily has risen, reaching around 100 refrigerated containers on some days, allowing exporters to utilize Jordan’s road network to redistribute Egyptian goods to several regional markets.

The ministry emphasized that these indicators demonstrate ongoing government efforts to provide logistical alternatives that support Egyptian exports and ensure the continued flow of international trade.