Egypt's food industry exports have reached $6.9 billion in 2025, marking a significant 68.3% growth compared to $4.1 billion in 2021. This surge is attributed to the sector's strategic importance in the Egyptian economy, its connection to the agricultural sector, and the government's efforts to boost exports and create job opportunities. The food industry has become a key contributor to Egypt's non-oil exports.
The Egyptian food industry has secured the third position among non-oil industrial sectors in terms of export value, accounting for around 14% of total non-oil exports in 2025. This growth is driven by various factors, including the sector's ability to provide employment opportunities and increase the economic value of agricultural products. The industry comprises several key sectors, such as dairy products, sugar, frozen vegetables and fruits, and edible oils.
The Egyptian government has been actively supporting the food industry through various initiatives, including the expansion of smart and climate-resilient agriculture applications. The government has also launched digital platforms, such as the "Hedhed" application, to provide farmers with digital advisory services and support small-scale farmers through the use of technology and artificial intelligence in agricultural guidance and pest diagnosis.
In terms of infrastructure development, Egypt has witnessed significant growth in its grain storage capacity, with the number of silos increasing from 32 in 2014 to 87 in 2025, boasting a storage capacity of 3.8 million tons. This expansion is part of the national silos project, aimed at enhancing the efficiency of grain handling and reducing waste. The government has also updated several mills and developed storage systems, connecting silos to various transportation means.
The Egyptian government has established the National Authority for Food Safety in 2017 to protect consumer health and develop a regulatory framework for food control. Furthermore, the government is promoting sustainable practices, such as recycling, reducing waste, and efficient use of resources, to support the transition to a green economy. The Ministry of Environment has launched the "Sustainable Green Industries" program to encourage sustainable practices and reduce pollution.
The growth of Egypt's food industry is also reflected in the increasing number of companies operating in the sector, which rose from 1127 in 2019 to 1530 in 2024, representing a 35.8% growth. The capital invested in these companies has also increased significantly, from 2.2 billion pounds to 6.6 billion pounds during the same period. This expansion indicates a growing interest in the food industry and a desire to invest in this strategic sector.
As Egypt's food industry continues to grow, the government faces challenges related to climate change, pressure on natural resources, and food waste. To address these challenges, the government is investing in modern technologies, developing food value chains, and promoting a circular economy. The goal is to enhance the competitiveness of Egypt's food industry, increase its exports, and ensure a sustainable food supply for the future.
Key points
- Egypt's food industry exports have reached $6.9 billion in 2025, driven by government support and strategic sector growth.
- The sector accounts for around 14% of total non-oil exports and has secured the third position among non-oil industrial sectors.
- The government is promoting sustainable practices and investing in modern technologies to enhance the competitiveness of the food industry.
