Boosting Economic Connections: Egyptian Food Industries Trade Mission Advances South-South Trade in South Africa

Johannesburg, South Africa – The Egyptian Food Industries Trade Mission at the NH Johannesburg Sandton Hotel marked a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen trade and investment ties between two of Africa’s largest economies: Egypt and South Africa.

Organized by the Egyptian Food Export Council, this mission took place as part of an official trade initiative from 4 to 9 May 2025.

The delegation included 29 prominent Egyptian companies and 52 esteemed delegates, presenting a dynamic representation of Egypt’s flourishing processed food industry.

By engaging with key South African importers, distributors, and food industry stakeholders, the mission sought to create new avenues for bilateral trade and industrial cooperation.

In his opening remarks, Egypt’s Ambassador to South Africa, Ahmed Ali Sharief, emphasized the mission’s importance as a progressive step in enhancing intra-African economic integration.

“It is both a privilege and a joy to launch this mission in Johannesburg – an event that signifies a new chapter in our economic partnership and reflects the enduring bonds between Egypt and South Africa,” Ambassador Sharief remarked.

He described the initiative as more than just a business event; it acts as a visionary platform for both countries to capitalize on their comparative advantages, particularly in the rapidly expanding processed food market.

Egypt’s processed food sector has become a vital component of its industrial economy, contributing over 14% to national production.

In 2023 alone, Egyptian exports in this arena exceeded $4 billion, reaching various markets across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and Africa.

With support from macroeconomic reforms and infrastructural investments, Egypt is strategically positioning itself to enter high-growth markets, with South Africa identified as a key gateway to the Southern African region.

“South Africa, given its advanced consumer base and industrial capabilities, is a natural partner. However, our current trade volume – just below $200 million – does not fully utilize our potential,” Ambassador Sharief emphasized. “We need to set our sights higher.”

He advocated for strengthened partnerships not only in trade but also in industrial investments.

Egypt, he explained, offers strategic access to over 1.5 billion consumers through trade agreements like AfCFTA, COMESA, and the Greater Arab Free Trade Area, supported by robust infrastructure such as the Suez Canal Economic Zone.

Ambassador Sharief also addressed the rising global trend of protectionist policies, urging African economies to enhance their cooperation in response:

“Although we may be geographically separated, we are united in spirit,” stated Ambassador Sharief.

“Our collective history of solidarity, especially in overcoming colonialism, provides a foundation for collaboration toward our developmental objectives.

“In these evolving global circumstances, Africa must present a unified front.”

Ambassador Sharief expressed optimism about the long-term outcomes of the mission, highlighting ongoing strategic discussions with EgyptAir to establish dedicated cargo flights between Cairo and Johannesburg.

This initiative, he noted, would considerably reduce logistical barriers, improve market access, and stimulate sustained trade growth.

During the event, Dr. Tareq El-Houby, Chairman of Egypt’s National Food Safety Authority, underscored the significance of regulatory integrity and quality assurance as fundamental aspects of Egypt’s food export strategy.

He pointed out that the involvement of the Authority’s CEO in the delegation reflected Egypt’s dedication to upholding the highest food safety standards.