The Egyptian fruit and vegetable market is valued at USD 15.64 billion in 2024, and could reach USD 25.88 billion by 2029, with a growth rate of 10.60% over the period 2024-2029, according to data from Modor Intelligence. This sector is one of the most dynamic in the agri-food sector in Egypt. It is subdivided into several agricultural regions, depending on climatic conditions; natural vegetation; soil type and agricultural practices. Among the main fruits and vegetables produced are tomatoes; potatoes; beets; oranges; onions; grapes and dates.
Egypt is one of the world’s largest exporters of fruits, especially oranges. In 2020, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization, Egyptian production of fruits and vegetables was between 14.7 million tons and 16.1 million tons, respectively. Oranges recorded the highest production with 3.2 million tons. Regarding vegetables, tomato production reached 6.7 million tons, followed by onions and shallots with 3.2 million tons.
Export contributes to market growth
In 2021, for example, the citrus market was valued at USD 854,966 thousand, an increase of approximately 6.55% compared to the previous year, according to UN Comtrade. The majority of fruits and vegetables are exported to the European Union, meeting international quality standards, thus ensuring smooth and unobstructed exports.
Russia is the main destination for Egyptian orange exports, accounting for about 11.9% of total exports in 2021. In addition, the growing demand for healthy eating and the increased use of fresh oranges in the food industry, including desserts; juices; jams; bakery products; confectionery and cereals, are expected to further boost Egyptian orange exports.
“In 2023, total exports reached USD 40 billion, accounting for about half of the country’s foreign exchange earnings. Agricultural exports account for 10% of this total, with citrus fruits occupying 35% of these exports, making this sector a vital source for the economy,” as Samah Ali, Assistant Professor at Cairo University, points out.
85% of exported citrus fruits are oranges
According to the Agricultural Export Council of Egypt, the country is the world’s leading exporter with two million tons for the 2022/2023 season, ahead of Spain. Egypt ranks 3rd in the world in terms of revenue from citrus exports, with USD 650 million. The target is now to reach 2.3 million tons of citrus exports in 2024, an increase of 15% compared to the previous year.
The continued growth of the Egyptian fruit and vegetable market is supported by stable production and expanding exports. The market is expected to see a significant increase in its self-sufficiency in production, fueled by increasing urbanization and rising disposable incomes in the country.
