Egypt expands in chemicals and fertilizers in 2025

Egypt is gearing up to strengthen its global presence in the chemical and fertilizer industries with a series of trade missions planned for 2025. Under the guidance of the Chemicals and Fertilizers Export Council, the initiative will target four African countries—Tanzania, Ghana, Ivory Coast, and Kenya—and one European destination, Spain. This strategic move aims to tap into untapped markets, expand exports, and bolster Egypt’s position in the global trade arena.

Unveiling the Plan: New Frontiers for Egyptian Exports

Chairman of the Chemicals and Fertilizers Export Council, Khaled Abul-Makarem, revealed the ambitious trade mission agenda during the International Manufacturing Convention and Exhibition (IMCE). He emphasized the council’s focus on exploring new markets in Africa and Asia, highlighting these regions' vast, untapped potential. Spain’s inclusion reflects Europe’s continued importance as a key trading partner for Egypt.

Africa: A Continent of Opportunities

Egypt’s trade ties with African countries have steadily grown, and the upcoming missions aim to further this trajectory. In 2023, Egypt exported chemical products and fertilizers worth $18 million to Ivory Coast, $7.7 million to Ghana, $6.4 million to Kenya, and $2 million to Tanzania. With these missions, Egypt hopes to significantly increase these figures by better understanding local market demands and creating lasting partnerships.

One major advantage for exporters is the 50 percent shipping subsidy offered by the council, making it more feasible to penetrate distant markets.

Spain: Strengthening European Links

Spain stands out as Egypt’s key European market for chemical exports, receiving $297 million worth of products in 2023. The planned trade mission aims to deepen this relationship by exploring opportunities for greater market share and enhancing collaborations with Spanish industries.

A Booming Export Sector

The announcement comes at a time when Egypt’s chemical and fertilizer export sector is on a growth trajectory. Exports grew by 5 percent in the first nine months of 2024, reaching $6.5 billion, and are expected to close the year at $8.5 billion.

The plastics sector has emerged as a standout performer, with exports hitting $2 billion by September 2024. Projections suggest it will reach $2.5 billion by year-end, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of Egypt’s export strategy.

The petrochemicals sector has also shown extraordinary progress, with a staggering 71 percent growth in 2024, totaling $1 billion in exports.

These successes underscore the council’s efforts to diversify markets and strengthen Egypt’s global competitiveness.

Collaborative Trade Missions: A Proven Model

This initiative builds on Egypt’s successful trade missions in the past. For instance, a 2022 mission to Kenya, organized in collaboration with the Export Council for Building Materials and the Egyptian Trade Office in Nairobi, showcased Egypt’s ability to forge meaningful business connections. The event facilitated market studies, legal insights, and business agreements, paving the way for more structured trade relations.

Vision 2030: Egypt’s Export Ambitions

These efforts are part of Egypt’s broader vision to boost total exports to $140-145 billion by 2030. By diversifying markets and focusing on high-growth sectors, Egypt is setting the stage for long-term economic gains.

Conclusion

Egypt’s 2025 trade missions reflect a forward-thinking approach to international trade. By targeting promising markets in Africa and Europe, the country aims to expand its footprint in the chemicals and fertilizers sector while building sustainable economic ties. These initiatives not only align with Egypt’s export goals but also highlight the nation’s commitment to becoming a global trade powerhouse.