The meeting brought together Minister of Supply and Internal Trade Dr. Sherif Farouk, Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation Alaa Farouk, and Dr. Bahaa El-Ghanam, head of the Future of Egypt Project for Sustainable Development.
Minister Sherif Farouk emphasized that sugar is a
high-priority strategic commodity with a direct impact on national food
security. He outlined a state plan to modernize production lines at state-owned
factories and improve operational efficiency to increase output and quality.
"Achieving sugar self-sufficiency strengthens the
state’s ability to maintain secure strategic reserves and limits price
volatility for the benefit of citizens," the Supply Minister stated.
Minister of Agriculture Alaa Farouk highlighted the
ministry's focus on increasing the acreage of sugar crops, specifically sugar
beet and sugarcane. The strategy includes supporting farmers by providing
high-productivity seeds and technical assistance, implementing advanced
agricultural techniques to boost yields per feddan, and utilizing research
centers to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and practical
application in the fields.
In a move toward greater transparency, officials discussed
the possibility of listing sugar on the Egyptian Commodities Exchange
(EGYCOMEX). This step aims to regulate the movement of sugar within the market,
provide clear pricing signals based on supply and demand, and prevent price
manipulation and ensure market stability.
The meeting was attended by a broad spectrum of experts,
including representatives from the Holding Company for Food Industries, the
Sugar and Integrated Industries Company (SIIC), and the Agricultural Research
Center.
Dr. Bahaa El-Ghanam of the "Future of Egypt"
project stressed that integrating the stages of agricultural production,
manufacturing, and distribution is the cornerstone of securing the country's
strategic needs.
The attendees agreed on periodic follow-ups to implement the meeting's outcomes, ensuring a coordinated push toward a more resilient and self-reliant sugar sector.