Egypt is taking a major step to further boost agricultural exports and empower local farmers, as the Ministry of Agriculture opened applications for membership in the Union of Producers and Exporters of Horticultural Crops (UPEHC).
The initiative aims to unify the sector, provide comprehensive support to growers, and open new pathways for Egyptian horticultural products to reach global markets, the ministry said.
The decision underscores the government’s commitment to fostering the agricultural sector via bringing farmers, agribusinesses, and industry associations under one umbrella, which will help maximise productivity and export potential.
“The step aims to unify the efforts of workers in the vegetables, fruits, and medicinal and aromatic plant sectors under a single organisation, providing them with technical and logistical support and opening prospects to access global markets,” said UPEHC Chairman Alaa Azouz.
Small-scale farmers, long challenged by limited resources and complex export requirements, stand to benefit significantly from this move.
The membership will help provide integrated support to improve product quality, competitiveness, and market readiness.
Azouz emphasised that the initiative aligns with the Union’s broader goals of strengthening Egypt’s agricultural export sector, boosting foreign currency inflows, increasing farmers’ incomes, and easing access for Egyptian crops to markets in Europe, Asia, and Africa.
The UPEHC offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to enhance efficiency and productivity.
These include training programs in partnership with research centers and international organisations to promote good agricultural practices, access to certified seeds such as Dutch potato varieties, and premium palm seedlings including Majdool and Barhi-all at competitive prices.
Members also gain access to market research, participation in international exhibitions and trade missions, and the ability to export under the Union’s banner, removing many of the previous barriers to global expansion.
As horticultural exports remain one of Egypt’s key sources of foreign currency, facilitating smoother access to international markets can translate into a steady inflow that supports economic stability.
These initiatives reflect a broader vision to transform Egyptian agriculture from a largely local activity into a globally competitive sector, improve farmers’ livelihoods while contributing directly to national economic growth.
