Egypt's iron and steel exports experienced a significant decline of 14% during the first seven months of 2026, totaling $969 million. This represents a decrease of $157 million compared to the same period in 2025, when exports reached $1.127 billion. According to data from the Egyptian Export Council for Building Materials, the decline in exports was also reflected in the local currency, with a 13% decrease to 49.257 billion Egyptian pounds, down from 56.844 billion pounds in the same period last year.
The Brazilian market emerged as the leading destination for Egypt's iron and steel exports during the first seven months of 2026, with a total value of $133.040 million. This represents a 17% increase from the same period in 2025, when exports to Brazil stood at $113.897 million. The growth in exports to Brazil was $19.143 million, securing a 13.7% share of the sector's total exports.
Turkey ranked second in terms of export destinations, with a value of $128.445 million, down from $182.436 million in the same period last year. This represents a decline of $53.991 million, or 30%, resulting in a 13.3% share of total exports. Lebanon followed in third place, with exports amounting to $64.698 million, down 7% from $69.508 million in the comparable period.
Notably, Egypt's iron and steel exports to Albania demonstrated significant growth, increasing by 136% during the first seven months of 2026. The value of these exports reached $64.294 million, up from $27.246 million in the same period last year. This substantial rise of $37.047 million resulted in Albania accounting for 6.6% of Egypt's total iron and steel exports.
Furthermore, exports to Sudan showed a positive trend, growing by 28% to $64.008 million, up from $49.841 million in the comparable period. This increase enabled Sudan to secure a 6.6% share of Egypt's total sector exports. A total of 72 markets received Egyptian iron and steel exports during the first seven months of 2026, down from 92 markets in the same period last year.
The top 10 export markets collectively accounted for $706.1 million of Egypt's iron and steel exports, representing 72.9% of the sector's total exports valued at $969 million. The performance of key markets varied, with some, such as Albania, Spain, Lithuania, Brazil, and Britain, experiencing growth in Egyptian exports. Conversely, exports to Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Lebanon declined during the period in question.
The decline in Egypt's iron and steel exports highlights challenges faced by the sector. Despite this, the growth in exports to certain markets, such as Brazil and Albania, presents opportunities for expansion and diversification.
Key points
- Egypt's iron and steel exports declined by 14% to $969 million in January-July 2026.
- Brazil was the top destination for Egypt's iron and steel exports, with a value of $133.040 million.
- The top 10 export markets accounted for 72.9% of Egypt's total iron and steel exports.
