Egypt starts 2026 wheat procurement season, targets 5 mln tons

Egypt has launched its 2026 local wheat procurement season, targeting 5 million tons and offering above-market prices to encourage farmers to increase supply, the Supply Ministry said on Tuesday.

Supply Minister Sherif Farouk issued two decrees to start the procurement season from 15 April to 15 Aug. and to form a supreme wheat committee to oversee operations and coordinate between relevant authorities.

The government has set the procurement price at 2,500 Egyptian pounds per ardeb for 23.5-grade wheat, 2,450 pounds for grade 23, and 2,400 pounds for grade 22.5, describing the prices as competitive with global markets and aimed at incentivising farmers.

More than 400 collection points, including silos, modern storage facilities, and collection centres, have been prepared nationwide to facilitate deliveries and reduce congestion, the ministry said.

A central operations room will operate around the clock alongside local units across governorates to monitor procurement and address any disruptions.

Farouk directed that payments to farmers and suppliers be made within 48 hours of delivery to ensure liquidity and support production.

The ministry aims to procure about 5 million tons of local wheat this season to strengthen strategic reserves and reduce reliance on imports, particularly as cultivated areas expand.

Procurement has already begun early in some governorates, including New Valley, Fayoum, and Assiut, according to ministry reports.

Farouk said the ministry is monitoring operations daily and providing support to farmers to ensure a smooth season and bolster food security.