Egypt has reported significant progress in its foreign trade sector for the first ten months of 2025. According to Hassan El-Khatib, Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, the country has witnessed a strong surge in non-oil exports and a notable reduction in its trade deficit. The General Organization for Export and Import Control revealed that total exports in October reached $3.84 billion, marking a modest increase from $3.79 billion in October 2024, which translates to a 1% growth. Imports for the same month decreased by 4%, falling from $7.28 billion to $7.01 billion.
Over the January–October period, non-oil exports climbed by an impressive 19%, totaling $40.61 billion compared to $34.15 billion during the same period last year. Simultaneously, Egypt’s trade deficit narrowed by 16%, dropping from $31.37 billion to $26.32 billion. This positive trend highlights Egypt’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its position in international markets while maintaining fiscal discipline.
Strategic Policies Drive Export Expansion and Market Diversification
The Ministry attributed these achievements to Egypt’s adoption of more open and flexible trade policies. The government has focused on boosting competitiveness, expanding exports with high added value, and reducing the trade deficit by reinforcing the integration between investment and trade activities. Egypt’s strategy also aims to protect local industries by employing trade remedies consistent with international agreements.
Efforts have been made to broaden access to new global markets and maximize the benefits of free trade agreements. These measures have helped Egyptian exporters reach new customers and diversify risk across multiple regions. The ministry emphasized that these policies are designed not only to foster export growth but also to ensure sustainable development for local industries.
Key Export Destinations and Sectoral Performance Highlight Egypt’s Success
The report outlined that the United Arab Emirates remained Egypt’s top market for non-oil exports during the January–October period, with shipments soaring to $6.33 billion—a remarkable 142% increase year-on-year. Turkey was the second-largest destination at $2.65 billion, followed by Saudi Arabia ($2.52 billion), Italy ($2.36 billion), and the United States ($2.26 billion). Collectively, exports to these five markets surged by 37%, reaching $16.13 billion compared to $11.76 billion last year.
Sector-wise, building materials led the way with revenues of $12.8 billion, reflecting a robust 43% growth from the previous year. Chemicals and fertilizers generated $7.72 billion, while food industries contributed $5.77 billion in export revenues. Engineering and electronic products brought in $5.32 billion, and agricultural exports totaled $3.89 billion.
Other notable sectors included ready-made garments at $2.81 billion, textiles at $966 million, medical industries at $793 million, printing and packaging at $705 million, home textiles at $518 million, furniture at $326 million, and leather products—including footwear—at $84 million.
Egypt’s Commitment to High-Value Industries and Global Competitiveness
The latest data underscores Egypt’s growing focus on high-value industries that are export-oriented and capable of competing internationally. By diversifying its market reach and strengthening competitiveness through strategic policies, Egypt is laying a foundation for long-term economic resilience.
The government’s approach reflects a balance between opening up new opportunities abroad and safeguarding domestic interests through alignment with international standards and agreements. As Egypt continues its efforts to expand access to global markets and enhance the capabilities of its industrial sectors, the country is positioning itself as a key player in international trade with a diversified portfolio of products.
