Egypt buys nearly 5 mln tons of wheat from farmers and cuts imports

Egypt purchased nearly 5 mln tons of wheat from local farmers during the 2026 procurement season, effectively meeting its government target. Higher domestic production has strengthened the country’s strategic reserves, which the government says are sufficient to cover domestic needs for several months.

Egypt’s wheat production exceeded 10 mln tons, supported by an expansion in planted area. As domestic supply increased, imports fell to 12.5 mln tons from 13.2 mln tons in the previous fiscal year.

The government expects stronger domestic procurement and higher reserves to reduce exposure to fluctuations in global prices and disruptions in international trade. This is particularly important for Egypt, which remains one of the world’s largest wheat importers.

Wheat is a key input for Egypt’s subsidized baladi bread programme, which serves around 71 mln people. Authorities are therefore maintaining safe reserve levels and regularly reviewing procurement plans, contracts and delivery schedules.

Egypt is also expanding the use of digital systems to manage silos and the wheat supply chain. The systems allow real-time monitoring of stocks, grain movements, withdrawal rates and reserve replenishment, helping improve storage efficiency and reduce losses.

Tags: Egypt, wheat, imports