Egypt’s food exports to Europe are unlikely to fall significantly due to the resumption of lockdown restrictions introduced across Europe last month, Food Export Council head Hani Berzi told Masrawy. Many European countries import essential goods from Egypt, demand for which is only likely to rise due to lockdown restrictions, the Edita boss suggested.

Europe is a significant market for Egyptian firms: Food exports to the EU reached USD 366 mn in the first nine months of the year, making up 14% of the USD 2.6 bn in total exports during the period.

Exporters are more likely to be hit by instability in neighbouring Middle Eastern countries, Berzi said, noting that the bulk of exports go to the Gulf and countries with a recent history of political turmoil including Libya, Sudan, and Iraq. Saudi Arabia is the largest importer of Egyptian food products.