Egypt Aims for Sugar Self-Sufficiency by 2026: A Sweet Victory for Food Security
Egypt is gearing up to achieve full self-sufficiency in sugar production by the year 2026, a milestone that promises to bolster national food security and decrease reliance on imports. This ambitious goal is part of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing the agricultural sector while ensuring that Egyptians have access to vital food resources at stable prices. The news, conveyed by the Cabinet of Egypt, signals a proactive approach to strengthening the nation’s agricultural capabilities.
In an impressive move, the government is significantly expanding the cultivation of sugar crops, particularly sugar beets. The area dedicated to sugar beet cultivation is set to grow from 600,000 feddans in 2023 to more than 780,000 feddans by 2025. Such an increase is made financially appealing by favorable procurement prices set by the Egyptian government — EGP 2,500 per ton for sugar cane and EG 3,000 per ton for sugar beets. These attractive prices are designed to encourage farmers to invest more in sugar crop cultivation, fostering a more robust agricultural economy.
In 2025 alone, Egypt’s total sugar output is estimated to exceed three million tons, with a notable portion — approximately 620,000 tons — coming from sugar cane, while a striking 2.5 million tons will be sourced from sugar beets. With this level of production, officials are optimistic about the country’s ability to halt sugar imports beginning next year. This strategic shift stands to not only conserve foreign currency reserves but also stabilize domestic sugar prices and enhance the overall food security of the nation.
The success of this initiative is attributed to a blend of government incentives and improved agricultural extension services, showcasing Egypt’s strategic commitment to building resilient agricultural systems. The Ministry of Agriculture has played a crucial role in facilitating this transition, providing support and resources to farmers, and ensuring that the nation’s agricultural future looks bright.
As Egypt embarks on this journey toward self-sufficiency, it’s not just about sugar; it’s a robust message about the nation’s commitment to food security and agricultural resilience. Keep an eye on the developments, as Egypt sets the stage for a sweeter, more secure future for its citizens.
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Tags: #Egypt #WorldNews #BusinessNews #Agriculture
