A government source from the Ministry of Supply and Internal Trade reported that local sugar production from cane and beet has reached approximately 662,000 tons since the beginning of the supply season. The produced quantities are distributed as 630,000 tons extracted from cane and 32,000 tons from beet, reflecting the regularity of supply rates during the current season.
The source indicated that this regularity is supported by government measures aimed at encouraging farmers to increase production. The cane supply season officially ended with the receipt of 5.9 million tons, while the beet supply season continues until next July, with 244,000 tons received so far.
Details of the Event
The source confirmed that the Egyptian Sugar and Integrated Industries Company is implementing a comprehensive development plan to enhance the efficiency of its factories. This plan aims to complete the development of the Abu Qurqas factory in the upcoming period, which will contribute to increasing production capacity and improving the quality of the final product.
The development plan also includes converting the Kom Ombo factory from operating with bagasse (cane waste) to using natural gas before the end of December. This transformation aims to improve operational efficiency, reduce environmental emissions, and lower production costs in the long term.
Background & Context
Sugar production is considered a strategic crop in Egypt, as it heavily relies on meeting local market needs. In recent years, there have been increasing efforts from the government to boost local production and reduce reliance on imports.
Agricultural reports anticipate that sugar production in Egypt will continue to rise, with total production expected to reach 3.18 million tons in the current marketing year 2025/2026, an increase of 80,000 tons from last year's estimates. This increase is attributed to improved farming practices and ongoing development in factories.
Impact & Consequences
It is expected that local production will meet about 82.5% of total sugar consumption in the current marketing year, reflecting the success of government policies in enhancing local production. Meanwhile, the remaining 17.5% is expected to be imported.
This balance between production and consumption reflects Egypt's ability to achieve self-sufficiency in some strategic crops, contributing to market stability and enhancing food security.
Regional Significance
Egypt is one of the largest sugar producers in the Arab region, and its production affects regional markets. Increased local production may help reduce prices in Arab markets, benefiting consumers.
Moreover, Egypt's success in achieving self-sufficiency in sugar production could serve as a model for other countries in the region seeking to enhance their agricultural production and reduce reliance on imports.
In conclusion, local sugar production represents a positive step towards achieving agricultural sustainability in Egypt, reflecting ongoing government efforts to improve productivity and support farmers.