Macfrut 2025 press conference highlights Egypt’s strategic role in agriculture trade

EGYPT – The 42nd edition of Macfrut was officially presented from Cairo, Egypt on Wednesday, September 11.

This highly anticipated trade event, scheduled to take place in May 2025 in Rimini, Italy, is set to spotlight Egypt as its partner country, emphasizing the nation’s growing importance in the global fruit and vegetable trade.

The presentation featured several notable speakers, including Italian Ambassador Michele Quaroni, Khaled Emara of Egypt’s Ministry of International Affairs, and Renzo Piraccini, President of Macfrut.

Strengthening agricultural ties between Egypt and Europe

At the heart of the discussions was Egypt’s pivotal role in agricultural trade, particularly as a key exporter of fruits and vegetables such as citrus, table grapes, and strawberries.

Italy’s Mattei Plan, an initiative aimed at fostering collaboration between Italy and African nations, was highlighted as a central framework for improving trade and development.

Matteo Zoppas, President of the Italian Trade Agency, emphasized the plan’s importance, stating, “The Mattei Plan seeks to strengthen Italy’s ties with Africa, with a particular focus on agriculture, water conservation, and energy. Egypt, as a priority country in this strategy, plays a key role in developing these sectors.”

Egypt’s strategic location, bridging Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, makes it a crucial partner for Italy and the broader European market.

Michele Quaroni, the Italian Ambassador to Egypt, underscored this, saying, “Egypt is a gateway for Europe and Africa, and this partnership will foster greater trade opportunities, especially through new initiatives such as the maritime connection between Damietta and Trieste, which will enhance trade flows.”

Khaled Emara, representing Egypt’s Ministry of International Affairs, noted the longstanding relationship between Egypt and the European Union, solidified through the EU-Egypt Association Agreement in 2004.

“We believe there is significant room for expanding our trade, particularly in processed agricultural products,” he stated.

The free-trade agreement has been instrumental in removing tariffs on industrial goods and facilitating agricultural trade, further strengthening ties between the regions.

Egypt’s agricultural expansion and food security

During his remarks, Emara highlighted Egypt’s ambitious plans to expand agricultural production. The country aims to add nearly 2 million acres of farmland, particularly in desert areas, utilizing modern agricultural techniques.

“We are revolutionizing agriculture in Egypt by increasing farmland and adopting the latest agricultural technologies,” he explained, emphasizing that this move will further Egypt’s role as a critical player in global food security.

Egypt’s focus on food security was echoed throughout the presentation, with several speakers mentioning the global challenges posed by conflict and climate change.

Emara stated, “Egypt plays an essential role in providing food security not just in the Middle East, but across Africa.”

This focus on regional food supply chains is expected to enhance Egypt’s position as a major hub for agricultural exports to European and African markets.

Macfrut 2025: Fostering global agricultural innovation

Renzo Piraccini, President of Macfrut, took the opportunity to highlight the importance of Macfrut as a global hub for agricultural trade and innovation.

“Macfrut is more than just a trade fair; it’s a platform that brings together the entire supply chain, from growers to technology providers,” he said.

The 2025 edition will feature over 1,400 exhibitors and aims to connect buyers and sellers from across the globe.

Piraccini also revealed new initiatives for Macfrut 2025, including a focus on potatoes as the event’s symbolic product.

“While potatoes may seem like a simple product, their strategic importance in global nutrition cannot be underestimated,” he added.

A significant highlight of Macfrut 2025 will be the collaboration between Italy and Egypt in developing technological centers in Africa.

These centers aim to enhance agricultural productivity by sharing knowledge and innovations, such as water conservation and irrigation technologies, crucial for both regions.

“This partnership with Egypt is an essential part of Italy’s vision for developing stronger ties with African countries,” Piraccini concluded.

Macfrut 2025 will take place from May 6 to May 8, 2025, in Rimini, Italy, where the world will witness the latest developments in agricultural trade and technology.