Egyptian meals exports to Libya develop by 18%, hit US$183M | Meals Enterprise Africa

EGYPT – Egypt’s meals exports to Libya reached US$183 million within the first seven months of 2024, translating to an 18% improve in comparison with the identical interval in 2023, in response to information launched by the Egyptian Meals Export Council.

Libya continues to function a key marketplace for Egypt’s processed meals sector. 

In 2023, whole exports to the neighboring nation grew by 8% in comparison with 2022, reaching US$291 million. 

These exports accounted for five.3% of Egypt’s whole meals exports that yr.

Egyptian producers wish to set up regionally made merchandise as alternate options to European imports, which have traditionally dominated Libya’s market. 

A number of main multinational fast-moving shopper items (FMCG) corporations, equivalent to Mars and Kraft Heinz, have not too long ago invested in Egypt, suggesting elevated confidence within the potential for Egyptian merchandise to fulfill each home and international demand, notably in markets like Libya.

The overland commerce route between Egypt and Libya through the Amsaad-Sallum crossing has been typically simple, although not with out issues. 

In August 2023, Egypt introduced plans to arrange a “logistics space” on the Sallum border crossing to ease commerce.

In December of the identical yr, Libya proposed opening a separate industrial crossing to enhance the movement of products, distinct from the one utilized by vacationers transferring between the 2 nations.

Nonetheless, tensions surfaced in April 2024 when Egypt unilaterally elevated entry charges for Libyan nationals to US$200. 

In response, Libya imposed extra charges for automobiles, vehicles, and border visas.