Egypt's fresh grape exports to Italy increased sharply in 2025, with volumes reaching more than 7,000 tons between January and July, according to EastFruit. Exporters generated nearly US$20 million during this period. Shipments were three times higher than in the same period last year and exceeded the combined total of the previous three seasons. This marks a new record for Egyptian grape exports to Italy.
© EastFruit
Grapes remain one of Egypt's main fruit export categories in terms of foreign currency earnings, following oranges and frozen strawberries. Italy is usually a minor market for Egyptian grapes, taking about 1.5 percent of total exports, but demand increased this year.
Italy's fresh grape imports have been rising for the past three seasons. In the first seven months of 2025, imports grew by 34 percent compared to the same period in 2024. The Netherlands and Spain remained the leading suppliers and accounted for more than half of Italy's import volume. Egypt, Peru, and Germany were the next largest suppliers.
Italy is the largest grape producer and exporter in Europe. The domestic season runs from July to October, during which imports remain limited. Imports return to the market in November, with Spain taking the lead, followed by the Netherlands, Peru, and Germany in December. Chile and South Africa supply grapes in March and April. Egyptian grapes enter the market in May and usually become the main origin by June.
© EastFruit
This year, a delayed domestic season in Italy allowed Egypt to continue exporting into July. During that month, Egypt supplied 90 percent of Italy's grape imports. As a result, Egypt set a new export record and became Italy's leading supplier of fresh grapes in the first seven months of 2025.
Egypt has also been expanding garlic exports to Italy, which further increases its presence in the European market.
Source: EastFruit
