The demand for onions from the European market is significantly increasing, and it is mainly directed to Egypt, says Fatimah Elzhraa of the Egyptian producer Al Solimania.
"European onion production has dropped by 30% this year due to the excessively high temperatures during the summer, which reached up to 40 degrees. This has caused serious disruption in the market, especially in Eastern Europe, including Poland. This is the first significant increase of demand for onions since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic in 2019."
On the origins that could fill the need for onions in the European market, Fatimah Elzhraa lists the options: "CIS countries are out of the equation, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan, which export 200k tons, 100k tons and 95k tons respectively, have currently banned exports. Turkey is also expected to ban exports because of the ramifications of the unfortunate earthquake that hit it. this leaves two options - especially for Russia - which are Egypt and China."
In the case of Alsolimania, the exporter assures to receive requests namely from Poland, Russia, and Bosnia & Herzegovina, in addition to the frequent demand from Middle East countries. "We supply our customers in these countries, and are currently aiming to do business in the Far East and Africa," adds Fatima Elzhraa.
Faced with this great demand for Egyptian onions, the exporter anticipates an increase in prices "prices have increased compared to last season and will continue to increase"
"We have the most demanded varieties, yellow onions from February to May, red onions from April to August, and scallions or spring onions from October to April. In total, we have 10k tons, or 360 containers and bulk boats, and most of these volumes are destined for Russia".
In addition to onions and citrus, Alsolimania offers potatoes, and prepares summer calendars of grapes, concludes Fatima Elzhraa.
Fatimah Elzhraa Tarek Elhadary
Alsolimania for export and import
Tél. : +201016621063
Fatimah.elzhraa@alsolimania.com
www.alsolimania.com