Egypt’s corn imports slow as feed demand weakens and stocks rise

Egypt’s corn imports are expected to remain subdued through mid-2026 as large domestic inventories and weaker demand from the poultry sector reduce the need for additional purchases. Market participants report that local grain supplies are currently sufficient, limiting importers’ interest in securing new cargoes.

A decline in poultry consumption, driven by economic pressure on households, has reduced demand for feed, where corn is a key ingredient. As a result, surplus stocks have accumulated in the domestic market, further dampening import activity.

Importers are also taking a cautious approach toward new purchases from major suppliers, including Brazil and Ukraine, preferring to wait for clearer signals on consumption trends and price developments before committing to additional volumes.

Lower import requirements could provide temporary relief for Egypt’s foreign currency reserves, which remain under pressure from the country’s substantial food import bill. However, weak demand in the poultry industry also reflects broader economic challenges affecting consumer spending and business activity.

Analysts expect corn imports to stay limited unless poultry demand recovers. Stronger consumer purchasing power or targeted government support for the sector could boost feed consumption and lead to higher corn import volumes later in the year.