10 Key developments in Egypt's agriculture sector

Significant Increase in Agricultural Exports

• In the first half of 2024, Egypt's agricultural exports surged by 300,000 tons compared to the same period in 2023, reaching a total of 4.9 million tons. This growth underscores the sector's vital role in the national economy and its contribution to maintaining foreign currency reserves.

Strategic Leadership and Initiatives

• Under the leadership of the newly appointed Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, Alaa Farouk, the ministry is vigorously promoting agricultural exports and enhancing quarantine systems. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to boost exports to $100 billion annually by 2030.

Enhanced Quarantine Systems

• Saad Moussa, overseeing foreign agricultural relations and quarantine, emphasized the implementation of advanced tracking systems, digital transformation, and continuous training for quarantine workers. These measures aim to meet importing countries' requirements and expand Egypt's agricultural markets.

Top Exported Products

• Citrus fruits, potatoes, and onions topped the list of exported agricultural products. Citrus fruits led with over two million tons exported, followed by potatoes at 930,000 tons, and onions at 131,000 tons.

Climate Change Adaptation

• The agriculture sector is adapting to climate change through strategic initiatives. Farmers are adjusting planting dates to avoid peak heat periods, and research has led to the development of drought-tolerant crop varieties, such as a new type of rice that consumes less water and has a shorter growing cycle.

Impact of Heat Waves

• Recent heat waves, with temperatures exceeding 42 degrees Celsius, have posed significant challenges. These extreme temperatures affect crop yields, quality, and the risk of disease and insect infestations. Strategies like greenhouse farming and preemptive harvesting are being employed to mitigate these impacts.

Research and Development Focus

• Ongoing agricultural research is crucial for long-term success in combating climate change. Innovations include drought-tolerant crops and advanced greenhouse projects, which help moderate climatic conditions and protect crop yields.

Economic Impact and Export Revenue

• The value of Egypt's agricultural exports in the first half of 2024 reached $2.9 billion, marking a $600 million increase from the previous year. This growth highlights the sector's importance in generating foreign currency and supporting the national economy.

Challenges and Solutions

• The heat waves have negatively impacted crops like mangoes, maize, and vegetables, leading to higher production costs due to increased pesticide and irrigation needs. To combat these issues, farmers are advised to adjust irrigation schedules and avoid planting heat-sensitive crops during peak temperatures.

Future Outlook and Government Support

• The government continues to support the agriculture sector through various initiatives and projects, such as the "Future of Egypt" initiative and land reclamation efforts in Toshka, the New Delta, and Sinai. These projects aim to enhance food security, reduce import dependence, and boost export revenues, ensuring the sector's sustainable growth and resilience against climate change.