Egypt’s onion season, which began in April following a three-month export ban, is facing significant challenges this year. The export ban was initially imposed due to a shortage of onions that drove local prices to unprecedented levels, prompting government intervention.
Mohamad Hassan, Export Manager of Al Gamal, reports that this year has seen an overproduction of onions, with national volumes estimated to exceed three million tons—one million tons more than last season. This increase in production was driven by last year’s shortages and high prices.
However, the current season is plagued by low demand. “Demand is almost non-existent for Egyptian onions,” Hassan explains. Even key markets like Saudi Arabia, which typically imports large volumes, are not showing interest this year.
The overproduction has led to a significant drop in prices. Hassan notes, “The season started with lower prices than last year, which was expected. However, prices have continued to fall beyond that, creating a challenging situation for producers and exporters.”
Producers and exporters are dissatisfied with the season’s outcome, and many are left with unsold onions, well beyond local market needs.