The qualitative and quantitative development of organic farming in Egypt: Regional and global leadership

In the last two decades, Egypt has witnessed a radical transformation in the field of organic agriculture, achieving remarkable progress on both quantitative and qualitative levels, making it occupy an advanced position among the leading countries in this field regionally and globally. This development is characterized by an increase in the areas cultivated organically, the diversity and quality of crops, as well as the strengthening of the infrastructure supporting this sector. What are the reasons for this renaissance? What factors have distinguished Egypt from others?

Quantum Evolution: Numbers that show an extraordinary leap

1. Increase in cultivated areas:

The area dedicated to organic farming in Egypt increased from about 50,000 feddans at the turn of the millennium to more than 250,000 feddans by 2023, and increased further in 2024, pending an official announcement of the percentage of increase, according to data from the Egyptian Ministry of Agriculture and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

2. Crop diversity:

Egypt has expanded the cultivation of more than 30 types of organic crops, including:

- Traditional crops such as cotton and wheat.

- Horticultural crops such as mangoes, strawberries, and dates.

- Medicinal and aromatic plants such as anise and mint.

3. Exports:

Egypt ranks first in Africa in the export of organic products, with its exports reaching about 500 million dollars in 2022, according to the Federation of Organic Agriculture Producers (IFOAM), and aims to reach one billion dollars by 2025.

Egypt ranks first in Africa in exporting organic products

Qualitative development: Quality, technology and sustainability

1. Adopting international standards:

Egyptian farms have obtained international certifications such as USDA Organic and EU Organic, which has boosted the confidence of foreign markets in their products.

2. Technological innovation:

Egypt has introduced modern technologies such as:

- Smart irrigation systems to rationalize water consumption.

- The use of beneficial microorganisms (microbiome) to control pests naturally.

3. Environmental sustainability:

Egyptian organic farms focused on protecting the soil from erosion and reducing carbon emissions through the use of bio-fertilizers, making it a model for sustainable agriculture.

Egypt is seeking to promote sustainability through the expansion of clean energy and smart agriculture.

Why has Egypt excelled in this field?

1. Geographical and climatic advantages:

- Its privileged location between three continents (Africa, Asia, and Europe) facilitated the access of its products to global markets.

- The warm climate throughout the year allows the production of diverse organic crops throughout the seasons.

2. Governmental and strategic support:

- The country adopted the “Green Agriculture 2030” strategy to convert 20% of agricultural land to organic.

- Providing incentives to farmers such as soft financing and training on organic practices through research centers such as the Agricultural Research Center.

3. International partnerships:

Egypt has collaborated with organizations such as GIZ and FAO to develop effective organic supply chains.

4. Local and global consumer awareness:

Global demand for organic products has increased, especially in the European Union (which imports 60% of Egypt's organic exports), while the local market has begun to adopt a culture of healthy consumption.

Egypt cooperates with international organizations to develop sustainable and efficient organic supply chains.

Future Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the successes, Egypt faces challenges such as:

- The high costs of organic certification compared to conventional farming.

- The need for more awareness of the importance of organic farming locally.

But the opportunities are great, especially as the world moves towards achieving food security through sustainable agricultural systems, for which Egypt has the infrastructure to meet the requirements.

Egypt has achieved success in organic farming thanks to its rich heritage, technology support, and smart partnerships.

Bottom line.

Egypt has become a success story in organic farming thanks to a unique combination of a rich agricultural heritage, a government vision backed by technology, and smart partnerships. This excellence is not just an economic development, but a reflection of the country's commitment to achieving sustainable development, protecting the environment, and serving as a role model for the Arab and African region.

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