Cairo: As part of the Egyptian Commercial Service's (ECS) efforts to support priority export sectors and enhance global market access, a pivotal meeting took place on Monday, November 3, 2025. The meeting involved Minister Plenipotentiary for Commercial Affairs Abdel Aziz El-Sherif, who is also the First Undersecretary of the Ministry and Head of the ECS, and Chairman of the Food Export Council Mahmoud Bazan. Executive Director of the Council Mai Khairy was also present to discuss the development of Egyptian food industry exports and explore avenues for cooperation between the two parties in the near future.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Khairy provided an overview of the food industry exports' performance from January to August 2025, which amounted to approximately $4.6 billion, marking a 9% increase compared to the same period last year. This sector ranked third among Egyptian export sectors, trailing only building materials and chemical products, and accounted for 14% of the total non-oil exports.
The meeting included a detailed analysis of export performance across different markets. Arab countries led the way with 48% of total food exports, followed by European Union countries at 21%, and non-Arab African countries at 7%. Notably, exports to the United States surged by 38%, while those to China and Germany saw increases of 138% and 44%, respectively.
El-Sherif highlighted the crucial role of the food industries sector in bolstering the national economy. He noted its strong capability to penetrate foreign markets due to diverse product offerings and ongoing improvements in quality and standards. He reaffirmed ECS's commitment to broadening the export market base and enhancing cooperation with the Council to execute trade fair and trade mission plans for 2026.
Bazan, on his part, outlined the Food Export Council's plan for the upcoming year. This plan involves participation in about 15 international exhibitions in key markets including India, China, Saudi Arabia, Trkiye, France, and Brazil, alongside organizing several trade missions.
The discussions also covered strategies to strengthen cooperation between the ECS and the Council in external promotion, data exchange on export opportunities, and organizing international buyers' missions. These initiatives aim to attract more investments and boost Egyptian exports to both regional and global markets.
In conclusion, both parties agreed to coordinate efforts to advance Egypt's food industry exports and collaborate on all aspects related to enhancing the market access of Egyptian food products and improving the marketing identity of Egyptian food industries.