Egypt's food industry exports have reached $5.128 billion from January to August 2026, marking a 10.8% increase from the same period in 2025. According to the Export Council for Food Industries, this growth reflects the continued rise in competitiveness of Egyptian food products and the success of exporting companies in expanding their presence in foreign markets. The sector's performance is supported by a diverse production base and high value-added products.
The growth in exports is attributed to the expansion of both the number of exporting companies and the markets they serve. A total of 2,731 companies are actively exporting to 179 markets worldwide. The first quarter of 2026 saw exports worth $1.769 billion, a 7.8% increase from $1.641 billion in the same period of 2025. The second quarter witnessed a more significant increase, with exports rising to $2.050 billion, a 15.6% growth from $1.773 billion in the same period of 2025.
The positive trend in exports continued in July and August 2026, with July's exports valued at $681 million, an 8.9% increase, and August's exports at $628 million, a 6.7% increase. This marks the eighth consecutive month of growth in exports. The second quarter accounted for 55% of the total increase during the period, while the first quarter contributed 26%, and July and August together accounted for 19%.
Arab countries remain the primary importers of Egyptian food industries, with imports valued at $2.419 billion, an 8.9% increase from $2.222 billion in the same period of 2025. This represents 47% of Egypt's total food industry exports. The European Union follows, with imports worth $1.124 billion, a 16.0% increase from $968 million in the same period of 2025, capturing 22% of the sector's total exports.
Exports to the United States rose to $334 million, an 8.9% increase from $306 million in the same period of 2025, accounting for 7% of the sector's total exports. Similarly, exports to non-Arab African countries increased to $356 million, a 3.3% growth from $345 million, also capturing 7% of total exports. These figures highlight the importance of continued efforts to enhance access to African markets and leverage regional trade agreements.
The growth in exports is not limited to specific markets, as countries worldwide have shown increased demand for Egyptian food products. Exports to other countries rose to $895 million, a 13.7% increase from $787 million in the same period of 2025, representing 17% of total exports. This diversification of markets and products underscores the resilience and competitiveness of Egypt's food industry.
The Export Council for Food Industries attributes the growth in exports to collaborative efforts with relevant authorities to support exports and enhance access to foreign markets. With 110 markets showing growth in imports of Egyptian food products, the sector is poised for continued expansion. Key products contributing to this growth include frozen strawberries, which topped the list of exported goods, valued at $617 million.
Key points
- Egypt's food industry exports reached $5.128 billion from January to August 2026.
- Arab countries and the European Union are the leading importers of Egyptian food products.
- Frozen strawberries topped the list of exported goods, valued at $617 million.
