EGYPT – MAFI for Agricultural Produce Industries has finalized a land allocation deal worth USD 300 million with Elsewedy Industrial Development to construct a monumental agri-food industrial complex in Sadat City, Egypt.

Branded as the Middle East’s largest, this hub aims to revolutionize the production of orange and tomato concentrates, diverse fruit products, and citrus oils.

Amidst the economic ramifications, the complex is slated to generate over 7,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities in its initial phase, fostering economic growth and aiming to bridge import-export gaps in the Egyptian economy.

As per the Egypt State Information Service (SIS), the initial phase targets an annual production of over 100,000 tons of high-quality agricultural food products, estimated to generate a turnover of USD 200 million.

“This endeavor aligns with the Egyptian government’s strategy to fortify industrial capabilities, boost exports, and reduce import dependency,” asserts SIS.

Hashima projected an ambitious trajectory for the complex, envisioning a subsequent phase doubling the production capacity to 200,000 tons, translating into a turnover of USD 400 million.

The initiative, emphasized as a cornerstone for enhancing Egypt’s industrial capabilities and export prowess, foresees the establishment of five plants.

These encompass a cloudy product facility, cutting-edge freeze-drying units for fruits and vegetables, and a state-of-the-art factory for preserving perishable commodities.

“The complex’s output is set to earmark 80% for exports, signifying a substantial contribution to rebalancing Egypt’s trade,” highlighted Ahmed Abu Hashima, Chairman of MAFI for agriculture produce industries, on the strategic intent behind this move.

He further underscored the collaborative efforts with renowned international companies like JBT, Cabin Plant from the US, and Germany’s GEA, integrating cutting-edge technology in the agricultural food sector.

Contracts were ceremoniously signed at the Council of Ministers headquarters in Cairo, attended by dignitaries including Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, the Prime Minister of Egypt, and Ahmed Elsewedy, President of Elsewedy Industrial Development.

The Middle East has seen significant strides in food and beverage innovation. Notably, advancements in food technology like Israel-based Steakholder Foods’ 3D fish bioprinting technology and the rising preference for plant-based alternatives among consumers in the UAE, as indicated by Ingredion, reflect the region’s evolving F&B landscape.

Moreover, heightened consumer concern for clean labels and a demand for natural ingredients have driven innovations in food colors, exemplified by ADM’s blue pigment technology and GNT’s launch of halal-certified plant-based natural colors in response to evolving consumer preferences.

The construction of Egypt’s mega agri-food complex not only signifies a leap forward for the country’s agricultural industry but also underlines the region’s burgeoning stride toward innovative, export-driven food production.

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