The Food Export Council (FEC) said Egyptian food exports continued their geographic expansion during the first half of 2026, driven by higher sales to Arab countries, the European Union, the United States and other global markets. In a statement on Thursday, July 30, 2026, the council said Egypt’s food industry exports reached approximately $3.77 billion during the January–June 2026 period, marking the highest half-year export value in the sector’s history, compared with about $3.41 billion during the same period in 2025.
Arab countries maintained their position as the largest destination for Egyptian food exports, with export value rising to about $1.737 billion, up from $1.588 billion in the first half of last year, an increase of $149 million and growth of nearly 9.4%. Arab markets accounted for around 46 percent of total food exports, reflecting their importance in Egypt’s food trade structure and the continued demand for Egyptian products across the region.
The council added that food exports to European Union countries posted strong growth of more than 15 percent, increasing from $739 million in the first half of 2025 to about $852 million during the same period in 2026, up by $113 million. The EU accounted for approximately 22 percent of total Egyptian food exports, ranking as the second-largest destination group for the sector’s exports.
The growth was driven by the expansion of Egyptian companies in European markets and their increased ability to comply with technical requirements, quality standards and food safety regulations. Exports to the United States rose to around $255 million, compared with $233 million in the corresponding period, recording growth of about 9.5 percent and accounting for 7 percent of total sector exports.
Food exports to non-Arab African countries reached approximately $252 million during the first half of this year, compared with $251 million during the same period last year, representing about 7 percent of total exports. Exports to the rest of the world also increased from $604 million to about $676 million, up by $72 million and nearly 12 percent, accounting for around 18 percent of total Egyptian food exports.
The council stressed that the diversification of export destinations is a key factor in supporting the sustainable growth of the sector and reducing reliance on a limited number of markets. It added that efforts will continue to support Egyptian companies in opening new markets, strengthening their presence in existing ones and enhancing the global competitiveness of Egyptian food products.
The Inauguration of the State Strategic Command Headquarters “The Octagon” in the New Capital The Inauguration of the State Strategic Command Headquarters “The Octagon” in the New Capital