Egypt's fish market experienced stability in prices on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, according to traders. The country's total fish production stands at approximately 2.2 million tons annually, with 1,571,000 tons from aquaculture and 456,000 tons from natural fisheries. Dr. Salah Meiselhi, head of the General Authority for Fish Wealth Development, provided these statistics. Egypt's fish production has seen significant growth in recent years.
Tilapia prices varied between 85 and 100 EGP, depending on the region. Aquaculture in marine waters began in 2015, under the directives of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. This initiative aimed to utilize Egypt's strategic location on the Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea, and the Suez Canal. The project has contributed to the growth of Egypt's fish production.
The price of bori fish ranged from 175 to 250 EGP. Aquaculture is the primary source of fish production in Egypt, accounting for 80-85% of the total production, approximately 1.6 million tons. Natural sources, including the Nile River, the Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea, and Egyptian lakes, contribute the remaining 15-20%. Egypt's fish production is one of the highest in Africa.
Egypt ranks first in Africa and sixth globally in aquaculture. The country has several large-scale projects, such as the Berka Gleyon fish city in Kafr El Sheikh, which is one of the largest in the Middle East. These projects follow international standards and have significantly contributed to Egypt's fish production. Other projects, like the East Suez Canal in Ismailia, have also been established.
The prices of fish in the Obour market, on Tuesday, ranged from 59 to 64 EGP per kilo for tilapia. Bori fish prices varied between 100 and 240 EGP per kilo, while kabouria fish ranged from 50 to 180 EGP per kilo. The prices of other fish, such as snakes and bream, also varied. These prices are according to the Obour market's official website.
Frozen fish prices in Egypt also varied, with frozen pasta ranging from 30 to 60 EGP per kilo. The prices of other frozen fish, such as Danish and Swiss pasta, ranged from 100 to 170 EGP per kilo for consumers. The average Egyptian consumes 18 kilos of fish per year, compared to the global average of 20 kilos.
Some fish prices, such as prawns, ranged from 250 to 1000 EGP per kilo. Other fish, like bass and squid, ranged from 170 to 270 EGP and 250 EGP per kilo, respectively. Egypt has achieved a self-sufficiency rate of 92-93.5% in fish production, thanks to the expansion of aquaculture projects. The country's fish production continues to grow, meeting the demands of its citizens.
Key points
- Egypt's fish production stands at approximately 2.2 million tons annually.
- Aquaculture accounts for 80-85% of Egypt's total fish production.
- Egypt ranks first in Africa and sixth globally in aquaculture.
