The rise and rise of Egypt's orange production

Egypt has become a global powerhouse in terms of orange production and exports, and its government is aiming to improve production even further.

- Janine Ryan

While many may associate Egypt with pyramids and pharaohs, the country is fast on track to become an agricultural powerhouse in Africa. According to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), agriculture contributes 11,3% to Egypt's GDP and accounts for 28% of all employment. While the sector is still largely dominated by smaller farms that use conventional agricultural practices, this is quickly changing as the Egyptian government steps up its investment in the sector.

In 2021, Egypt exported 5,6 million tons of agricultural goods, compared with 5,1 million tons in 2020. According to the country's Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, the export of citrus fruit was most significant, with 1,8 million tons exported in 2021. This was followed by fodder beets (650 340t), potatoes (614 424t), onions (276 141t), and grapes (143 450t). Other important export crops include strawberries, pomegranates, beans, guavas, peppers, mangoes, garlic, and watermelons. In this article, we specifically look at Egypt's production of oranges, and the challenges and opportunities in the country in this regard.

ORANGES

Egypt is currently the world's biggest exporter of oranges, which account for around 80% of its total citrus production. According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), Egypt is expected to retain this ranking, despite an almost 200 000t drop in exports to 1,45 million tons due to unfavorable weather conditions and their impact on production. Egypt's orange exports in 2021 were estimated to be worth around US$843 million (about R13,2 billion).