Egypt cuts wheat imports from Ukraine and Russia, increases purchases from other countries

In January–October 2026, Egypt imported 2.73 mln tons of Ukrainian wheat, compared with 3.32 mln tons in the same period last year. Supplies decreased by 587.9 thsd tons, or 17.7%, Al Manassa reports.

Overall, Egypt purchased 10.18 mln tons of wheat over the ten-month period, down 6.2% year-on-year. Russia remained the largest supplier, although its shipments also declined from 6.1 mln tons to 5.72 mln tons. Russian wheat accounted for 56.2% of Egypt’s total imports.

At the same time, Egypt is increasing purchases from alternative origins. Wheat imports from Romania rose by 48.8% to 742.9 thsd tons, while supplies from Bulgaria increased by 19.7% to 246.9 thsd tons and those from Canada grew by 39% to 157.2 thsd tons. Lithuania and Latvia also became new suppliers, shipping 93.1 thsd tons and 66 thsd tons, respectively, over the ten-month period.

The decline in purchases is linked to rising global wheat prices, a stronger dollar and logistical disruptions in the Black Sea region. According to Hisham Suleiman, director of Mediterranean Star for Trading and Grain Imports, global wheat prices increased from $270/tonne in mid-year to $320/tonne, although they have recently eased to $305/tonne. Amid supply disruptions, flour prices in Egypt have risen by approximately 3,000 Egyptian pounds ($55) per tonne since early August.

According to Egypt’s Ministry of Agriculture, the country imported around 12.5 mln tons of wheat in the 2025/26 financial year, covering approximately 62% of domestic consumption. Egypt’s total annual wheat requirement stands at 20.3 mln tons.

Tags: Ukraine, Russia, Egypt, wheat