Egypt’s Food Exports Surpass $2.4 Billion in First Four Months of 2026

Egypt’s food industry exports exceeded $2.4 billion during the first four months of 2026, marking continued growth for one of the country’s most dynamic export sectors despite persistent global economic uncertainties and disruptions in international trade.

According to newly released official data, food exports reached $2.432 billion between January and April 2026, compared with $2.272 billion during the same period in 2025. The increase represents annual growth of 7.1%, equivalent to an additional $161 million in export revenues.

The Export Council for Food Industries attributed the strong performance to the sector’s ability to maintain competitiveness, diversify export destinations, and strengthen its presence in both established and emerging international markets despite ongoing volatility in global supply chains and trade flows.

Monthly export figures showed consistent expansion throughout the reporting period. Exports in January totaled $536 million, up slightly from $531 million a year earlier. February recorded stronger momentum, with exports rising to $586 million from $532 million, reflecting growth of 10.2%.

Growth continued in March, when exports reached $616 million compared with $578 million during the same month of 2025, an increase of 6.6%. April delivered the strongest monthly performance of the period, with exports climbing to $694 million from $631 million a year earlier, representing growth of 10.1% and an increase of $64 million.

Arab countries remained the largest destination for Egyptian food products, importing goods worth $1.126 billion during the first four months of the year. The region accounted for approximately 46% of total food exports and registered an increase of $39 million compared with the corresponding period in 2025.

The European Union ranked second among Egypt’s export markets, with imports totaling $551 million, representing about 23% of total food exports. The bloc recorded the highest absolute growth among major regional markets, with export values increasing by $72 million, or 15% year-on-year.

Industry officials attributed the surge in European demand to the growing popularity of several Egyptian food products, particularly frozen strawberries, olives, and edible oils.

Exports to the United States also posted positive results, rising by 11% to reach $160 million during the January–April period.

Meanwhile, exports to non-Arab African countries declined by 6% year-on-year to $155 million, reflecting softer demand in some regional markets. In contrast, exports to the rest of the world increased by 11%, reaching $441 million.

The latest figures underscore the resilience of Egypt’s food manufacturing sector and its growing role in supporting foreign currency earnings. The sector continues to benefit from expanding market access, increased production capacity, and sustained demand for Egyptian agricultural and processed food products across international markets.

As Egypt seeks to strengthen its export base and diversify sources of economic growth, the food industry remains one of the country’s strongest-performing sectors, contributing significantly to trade expansion and industrial development.