The Egyptian Cabinet's Information and Decision Support Center (IDSC) has released a report on Sustainable Food Industries, highlighting the current state of Egypt's food industry sector and its role in supporting food security and economic growth. The report notes that the sector has experienced significant growth, with exports reaching approximately $6.9 billion in 2025, up from $4.1 billion in 2021. This represents a growth rate of nearly 68.3 percent.
The Egyptian food industry sector encompasses a wide range of key industries, including dairy and dairy products, sugar and sugar-based products, frozen vegetables and strawberries, fruit and vegetable preparations, as well as oils, aromatic resins, and their derivatives. These industries have contributed to the sector's growth, with exports accounting for approximately 14 percent of total non-oil merchandise exports in 2025. The food industries sector ranks third among non-oil industrial sectors in terms of export value, behind construction materials and chemical products & fertilizers.
The report highlights the development of supply chains and infrastructure in the sector, particularly in the grain storage system. Under the National Silos Project, the number of silos has increased significantly, reaching 87 in 2025, up from 32 in 2014. This expansion has resulted in a total storage capacity of approximately 3.8 million tons. The development of infrastructure is crucial in supporting the growth of the food industry sector.
The workforce in the food product manufacturing sector is substantial, accounting for approximately 15.4 percent of total employment across public/public business sector establishments and the private sector during the fourth quarter of 2024. This reflects the sector's relative importance within the labor market and industrial activities. The Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics (CAPMAS) provides data on the sector's employment figures.
The report also notes that the number of companies established in the food industry sector has increased, rising from 1,127 in 2019 to 1,530 in 2024. This represents a growth rate of approximately 35.8 percent. The growth in the number of companies is a positive indicator for the sector's future prospects.
The Egyptian government is making efforts to reduce food loss and waste, develop supply chains, and foster a transition toward more efficient and sustainable production models. These initiatives aim to support the growth of the food industry sector while ensuring its sustainability. The report highlights the importance of these efforts in achieving food security and economic growth.
The growth of the food industry sector is expected to continue, driven by the government's initiatives and the sector's potential for expansion. With its significant contribution to Egypt's economy and employment, the sector is likely to remain a vital component of the country's industrial activities. The report provides valuable insights into the sector's current state and future prospects.
Key points
- Egyptian food industry exports reached $6.9 billion in 2025, up 68.3% from 2021.
- The sector accounts for approximately 14 percent of total non-oil merchandise exports.
- The workforce in the food product manufacturing sector accounts for 15.4 percent of total employment.
