Egypt's exports to Brazil have experienced a significant surge over the past nine years, driven by a free trade agreement between Egypt and the Mercosur bloc. The agreement, which was signed in September 2017, is set to enter a strategic phase in 2026, providing Egyptian products with full exemptions from customs duties in the Brazilian market and other Latin American markets. This has positioned Egypt as a key launchpad for investments in Latin America.
According to Michael Gamal, Executive Director of the Arab-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce in Cairo, the exports have diversified beyond the traditional dominance of chemical fertilizers, which previously accounted for 90% of shipments. The export base now includes a range of food, agricultural, and industrial products. In contrast, Egyptian imports from Brazil have traditionally focused on meat, sugar, coffee, corn, and soybeans.
The growth in Egyptian exports to Brazil has been remarkable, with a 1336% increase from $94 million in 2016 to $1.35 billion in 2025. The food industry has been a significant driver of this growth, with Egyptian frozen strawberries capturing 83% of the Brazilian market, which is valued at $200 million. Other Egyptian products, such as citrus fruits, garlic, frozen vegetables, table olives, and semi-fried potatoes, are also gaining traction in the Brazilian market.
The Arab-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce is promoting Egyptian exports to Brazil through various initiatives, including a trade mission to Brazil in November, in collaboration with the Egyptian Export Council for Food Industries. The mission will bring together 10-12 Egyptian companies to hold bilateral meetings with Brazilian importers, with the aim of translating available opportunities into actual contracts.
Gamal emphasized the importance of understanding Brazilian consumer preferences, such as the demand for small packaging for dates and moderate salt levels for olives. He also highlighted the need for Egyptian companies to comply with transportation regulations, including temperature and humidity controls, to ensure the quality of food products during shipping.
Despite concerns about logistics, Gamal noted that shipping costs to Brazil can be lower than to some Arab or African markets, due to available space on return journeys. He also pointed to opportunities for Egyptian companies to tap into the Brazilian market by importing raw materials, such as Brazilian coffee beans, and re-exporting them after processing.
The growth in Egyptian exports to Brazil has been driven by a range of factors, including the free trade agreement and the increasing competitiveness of Egyptian products. The Arab-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce is committed to supporting Egyptian companies in their efforts to expand into the Brazilian market, through market research and participation in international trade fairs, such as APAS.
Key points
- Egypt's exports to Brazil have increased by 1336% over the past nine years, driven by a free trade agreement between Egypt and the Mercosur bloc.
