Russia is the main market for Egyptian oranges in terms of volume, and last season was no exception, with 247,628 tons exported between September 2024 and July 2025. However, according to Melissia Eskander of Egyptian exporter Al Karma Foods, this market is becoming increasingly complex and difficult to navigate.
© Al Karma Foods
The exporter states: "Last season was turbulent for several reasons, including the impact of concentrate factories, lower production, and the predominance of small sizes. It was particularly difficult to source large-sized oranges, and we encountered difficulties in markets that prefer large sizes, such as Russia."
According to Melissia, next season looks set to be just as challenging. She continues: "The situation could improve in terms of competition for sourcing oranges, as concentrate factories are losing their appeal to growers due to lower prices. However, lower production and small fruit size continue to impact production. This will affect exporters' commercial performance in several markets that are very demanding in terms of size. "
© Al Karma Foods
"The citrus sector in Egypt and around the world is going through a difficult period marked by production challenges, and buyers need to be realistic and flexible. Citrus importers in Russia and elsewhere need to adopt a more collaborative and realistic approach when it comes to size preferences," the exporter continues, pointing out that the current state of affairs is marked by unrealistic and punitive practices such as unfair prices and payment terms for small-sized oranges.
Melissia says she will be focusing on other "more flexible" markets next season, in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. She adds, "We're also upping our volume forecast from 2,000 tons last season to 5,000 tons this season, with 10-15 percent being large sizes."
© Al Karma Foods
"We prioritize balanced professional relationships based on trust and long-term partnerships. Our group, founded in 2000, has achieved a high level of integration, encompassing the agriculture, food, paper, and real estate sectors, as well as one of the largest packing stations in Egypt. We have also been exporting fresh produce from our own production or by contacting producers since 2021. Our board members, Ossama, Emad, Ehab, and Hany from the Eskander family, all share the same passion and aim to position Egyptian citrus as a benchmark for quality and consistency in the global market," Melissia concludes.
For more information:
Mellisia Eskander
Al Karma Foods
Tel: +201201900002
Email: [email protected]
www.alkarmafoods.com
