The total volume marks an increase of about 650,000 tons compared to the same period last year, Farouk said, citing an official report from Dr. Mohamed El-Mansy, Head of the Central Administration for Agricultural Quarantine.
According to the report, Egyptian citrus led the export
list, with quantities exceeding 1.9 million tons. It was followed by fresh
potatoes in second place, with over 1.3 million tons exported. Fresh onions
ranked third, surpassing 258,000 tons. Fresh and dried beans were the fourth
most important export, exceeding 245,000 tons, followed by sweet potatoes in
fifth place, with more than 212,000 tons.
The report also highlighted other key agricultural exports
that performed strongly this season, including, in order: grapes, mangoes,
fresh tomatoes, pomegranates, fresh garlic, fresh strawberries, and guavas.
Minister Farouk stressed that the continued surge in exports
reflects the agricultural sector's steady progress and its growing competitiveness
in global markets. He underscored the government's commitment to developing the
sector, boosting its competitive edge, and opening new markets while adhering
to the highest quality standards.
Egypt currently exports more than 405 agricultural products
to over 167 countries. Farouk highlighted recent successes in market access: The
South African market was opened to Egyptian pomegranates, the Philippine market
opened for the first time to fresh onion and garlic exports, procedures were
finalised to open the Mexican market to Egyptian hibiscus exports after years
of negotiations, and Venezuela opened its market to all types of Egyptian citrus,
including grapefruit, lemons, and mandarins.
Farouk affirmed that the success hinges on the collective
efforts of farmers, producers, exporters, and regulatory bodies. He
specifically highlighted the role of the Egyptian Agricultural Quarantine, the
ministry's accredited reference laboratories, and the external agricultural
relations department.
The Minister added that the ministry will continue to provide the necessary support to enhance agricultural production and develop exports, which contributes to the national economy and achieves food security.