News in Brief:
Egypt’s agriculture minister announced record-breaking exports of 7.5 million tons in 2023, solidifying the country’s position as a major exporter of oranges, strawberries, and various other products to over 160 countries.
Reinforcing Egypt’s position as a leading agricultural exporter, the country’s Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, Al Sayed Al Qusair, announced record-breaking export figures during a recent cabinet meeting.
According to the minister, 2023 marked a banner year for Egyptian agriculture, with total exports reaching an unprecedented 7.5 million tons. This surge in exports translated to a remarkable $8.8 billion in revenue, highlighting the sector’s growing economic significance.
Also, Minister Al Qusair emphasised his country’s leading role in the global orange and frozen strawberry export market. According to him, Egypt’s agricultural prowess extends beyond specific products.
The year 2023 witnessed exports reaching 160 countries, including a remarkable 93 new markets entered within the last decade, signifying Egypt’s increasing presence in the global food supply chain.
Meantime, Egypt’s citrus industry, particularly oranges, continues to flourish. The first quarter of 2024 alone saw exports reach a staggering 1.2 million tons. In 2023, Egypt cemented its position as the leading orange exporter to the European Union, exceeding 500,000 tons.
Additionally, Egypt reigned supreme in orange exports to Southeast Asian nations between October 2022 and February 2023. Other major citrus exporting countries in Africa include South Africa, and Morocco.
However, weather problems as well as imposition of cold treatment by the European Commission severely impacted South Africa’s production, costing them the throne as top African exporter.