Egyptian frozen strawberries surpass fresh in market value

EGYPT – Egypt’s strawberry industry is experiencing an unusual shift this season, with frozen strawberries surpassing fresh ones in market value.

This change is driven by high demand in international markets and the impact of recent weather conditions.

Frozen strawberries have become the primary focus for Egyptian growers. According to Mohamed Sayed Ahmed from Elswedy Food Industries, “80% of annual production is destined for frozen exports, which are much more in demand.”

The decision to prioritize frozen strawberries is clear from the figures, with production mainly serving the frozen sector rather than the fresh market.

Weather conditions have significantly affected this year’s production. Ahmed states, “Yields have fallen from 15-30 tonnes to 12-15 tonnes per feddan. Volumes are insufficient, while demand remains strong.”

This has led to a notable price increase for frozen strawberries, which have risen by 30-40% compared to the previous season. “This is the first time I’ve seen this,” Ahmed remarks.

The international market for Egyptian frozen strawberries is extensive and diverse. Fresh strawberries are primarily exported to Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and the UAE, with smaller quantities reaching the European Union and the UK.

In contrast, individually quick frozen (IQF) strawberries are in high demand across Europe, including Germany, the UK, Poland, Italy, France, Spain, Turkey, and Lithuania.

Additionally, blast-frozen strawberries find strong markets in Arab countries like Saudi Arabia and Jordan.

“Growers therefore take the frozen market into consideration in their planting decisions,” says Ahmed. Resistant varieties such as Fortuna and Festival are favored for their suitability for freezing, leading to their increased cultivation.

Despite challenges in the fresh strawberry sector, the acreage for frozen strawberry production is expected to rise by at least 30% next season.

Egypt is currently facing a financial crisis, exacerbated by an energy crisis leading to widespread power cuts. However, Ahmed dismisses concerns about the impact on the strawberry industry.

“Electricity cannot be cut off in industrial zones, but we’re seeing the price of electricity and therefore the cost of frozen strawberries increase,” he explains. Despite these challenges, the demand for frozen strawberries remains robust, encouraging growers to expand their production.

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