Egyptian garlic exports to the EU nearly double in 2025
Egyptian garlic exports to the European Union increased to 19,555 tons in 2025, compared with around 9,655 tons in 2024, according to Spain's ASAJA association. Egypt became the EU's second-largest garlic supplier after China.
Spanish producers said Egyptian garlic entered the European market ahead of the local harvest season at an average price of €1.5/kg (US$1.71/kg), down €0.20/kg (US$0.23/kg) from the previous year. Producers said the lower prices affected the competitiveness of European garlic and contributed to lower market prices.
Egyptian garlic exports to Italy increased 55% year-on-year in 2025, reaching record levels, while exports to Spain increased nearly fivefold during the first eight months of the year due to lower domestic production.
Spanish producers called on the European Union to review trade agreements with Egypt, evaluate safeguard clauses, update customs duties on Chinese imports introduced in 2001, and strengthen customs controls.
The increase in Egyptian exports comes as Spain expects higher garlic production this season. Production in Córdoba is forecast to rise between 40% and 50% compared with the previous year, supported by winter rainfall.
Córdoba's garlic production is expected to reach around 11,100 tons in 2026, compared with just over 8,000 tons last season. Andalusia is expected to produce around 37,800 tons, up 31.4% year-on-year, while total Spanish production is estimated at 237,800 tons across 9,875 hectares.
Spanish growers said concerns remain over market share losses to Egyptian garlic, while production costs continue to range between €12,000 and €15,000 per hectare (US$13,700-US$17,100/ha).
Meanwhile, Egyptian exporters reported continued demand from Europe, Brazil, and the United States.
Mohamed Maatouk, CEO of RM Fresh, said demand increased from April as import-dependent markets and regions facing supply shortages increased purchases.
He added that Egyptian garlic prices started the season below last year's levels before increasing during the season, although prices remain competitive internationally.
According to Maatouk, Egypt's garlic production is approaching 500,000 tons annually. Fresh garlic exports reached around US$36.7 million in 2023.
Ehab Samy, CEO of Noreen Food, said most suppliers have already committed their available volumes for the current season.
"The season began with strong European demand and satisfactory prices for exporters, before a shortage in Brazil further boosted export momentum," Samy said.
He added that demand for Egyptian garlic is expected to continue, with buyers already requesting contracts for next season.