Egypt sets new record as Italy boosts grape imports

EGYPT – Egypt increased fresh grape exports to Italy at a strong pace this year and crossed the 7,000 ton mark between January and July.

Data from EastFruit shows that exporters earned nearly US$20 million during this period. Exporters said this surge confirms strong demand in Italy. One trader said, “The numbers show clear interest from Italian buyers and we expect steady orders in the months ahead.”

Grapes remain one of Egypt’s top fruit export categories after oranges and frozen strawberries. Italy usually buys a small share of Egypt’s grapes and takes about 1.5 percent of total volumes. This changed in 2025 as interest grew quickly.

Italy has increased fresh grape purchases for the past three seasons. In the first seven months of 2025, imports grew by 34 percent compared to the same period in 2024.

The Netherlands and Spain stayed at the top of the supplier list and provided more than half of Italy’s import volume. Egypt, Peru, and Germany followed closely behind them.

Italy remains the largest grape producer and exporter in Europe. The domestic season runs from July to October and limits import activity. Imports return in November when Spain leads the market.

The Netherlands, Peru, and Germany follow during December. Chile and South Africa ship their grapes in March and April. Egyptian grapes enter in May and often take the lead by June.

Delayed Italian season opens a window

A slower start to Italy’s domestic season helped Egypt keep its shipments moving into July. During that month, Egypt supplied 90 percent of Italy’s grape imports. Local exporters said this window helped them ship record volumes. One exporter noted, “The gap in Italy’s season allowed us to send more fruit and meet demand that came earlier than usual.”

Egypt now holds the top spot in Italy’s fresh grape supply for the first seven months of 2025. Exporters said they want to keep this momentum through strong supply planning.

Egypt has also increased garlic exports to Italy. Traders said this shows stronger interest from European buyers. A sector analyst said, “We see more space in Europe for Egyptian produce and this trend will likely continue if supply stays steady.”

This steady growth in both grapes and garlic shows how Egypt continues to strengthen its presence in the European fresh produce market. Exporters expect more improvement in the next season as they try to maintain reliable quality and timely shipments.

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