Egypt, Ukraine boost grain trade, eye African markets
Egypt is aiming to become a major global grain logistics hub, leveraging the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE) for grain storage and re-export. This was a key topic discussed Monday between Egypt’s Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Rania Al-Mashat and Ukraine’s Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food, Vitaliy Koval, who met to explore expanded cooperation in agriculture, trade, and logistics.
Minister Al-Mashat emphasised the opportunity for Ukrainian grain to be stored in Egypt and then distributed to neighbouring African markets. Egypt’s expanding silo infrastructure and government initiatives are crucial to this strategy, positioning the country as a central player in global grain trade and enhancing its ability to meet both domestic and regional demand.
The two ministers discussed how Ukrainian agricultural exports, especially grains, could benefit from Egypt’s logistics network to reach African markets more effectively. Minister Al-Mashat noted that these improved facilities would not only secure Egypt’s own wheat and grain supplies but also boost broader trade across the continent.
Both ministers recognised Ukraine’s importance as a major agricultural exporter and Egypt’s strategic position as a gateway to Africa. Minister Koval highlighted the 32 per cent growth in Ukrainian agricultural exports to Egypt last year, which demonstrates the strengthening trade ties between the two nations.
Looking ahead, the discussions included potential joint ventures in agriculture, such as seed production, food manufacturing, and farming, paving the way for long-term partnerships. Tourism, with Ukraine as a leading source of visitors to Egypt, was also highlighted as a key area for collaboration.
Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
Subediting: Y.Yasser