The start of April marks the end of the Egyptian government's ban on onion exports. According to Mohamad Hassan, Export Sales Manager at Al Gamal, this year's production is sufficient and far exceeds the needs of the local market.
"With the expiry of the onion export ban, initially set until the end of 2023 and then extended until the end of March, and in the absence of a further extension, there are currently no restrictions on onion exports, and we can resume supplying the international market," says Hassan.
The resumption of exports is confirmed by correspondence dated April 1, 2024, from the Egyptian Ministry of Trade and Industry to the Agricultural Export Council, which we have been able to consult.
Hassan says, "The onion shortage is over, thanks to a considerable increase in cultivated areas this season. There is sufficient supply for the local Egyptian market and export. This year, production has reached 3 million tonnes, 1 million tonnes more than last season. Egypt usually exports 600,000 tonnes and consumes 1.2 million tonnes. We therefore have a surplus of 1.2 million tonnes nationwide."
"Prices on the local market, which had reached unprecedented levels last year, prompting the government to suspend exports, have now stabilized," he add.
Demand for Egyptian onions should be high, according to the exporter. He concludes, "The ban period has left a gap in the market, as Egyptian onions are appreciated for their quality and shelf life. Even before the end of the ban, we saw European buyers preparing for the resumption of the Egyptian supply. The season will last until September and promises to be dynamic."
For more information:
Mohammad Hassan
Al Gamal for import and export
Tel: +201157845538
Email: marketing@algamal.org