The Egyptian-Swiss Group for Pasta, Milling, and Concentrates served as the gold sponsor for the first Exporters Conference of the Food Industries, which witnessed the participation of Minister of Investment Hassan El-Khatib. The minister delivered his first keynote speech since taking office during the event.
The Importance of the Conference for the Food Industries Export Sector
Eng. Ahmed El-Sebai, General Manager of the Egyptian-Swiss Group for Pasta, Milling, and Concentrates, emphasized that the group was keen to sponsor the conference due to the significance of the food industries export sector to the Egyptian economy. Over recent years, the group has achieved notable growth in exports, positioning it as the third-largest exporting industrial sector in the country.
Minister of Investment Acknowledges Export Challenges
El-Sebai highlighted that the conference achieved exceptional success in its first edition, with the presence of the Minister of Investment, who demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of the challenges facing exporters and expressed his commitment to removing barriers to boost exports.
Strong Attendance of Government Officials and Institutions
The conference saw significant participation from leadership across various ministries and institutions involved in the investment, industrial, and export sectors. Attendees included representatives from the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade, the Commercial Representation Authority, the General Organization for Export and Import Control, the Chamber of Food Industries, the Ministry of Finance, the Export Development Fund, and the Exhibitions Authority.
Growth in the Food Industries Export Sector
The food industries export sector witnessed a growth rate of 23% during the first seven months of 2024. The value of exports reached $3.7 billion during the period from January to July, compared to $3 billion in the same period of 2023, marking an increase of $700 million.
Recommendations from the First Exporters Conference of the Food Industries
- Public-Private Collaboration: Emphasizing the need for integrated efforts between the government and private sector to identify target markets and achieve national goals.
- Food Safety Enhancement: Ensuring strict oversight of products from certified export stations to improve quality.
- Financial and Administrative Support: Accelerating the disbursement of export dues and providing financial incentives to exporting companies.
- Improving Transportation and Infrastructure: Offering competitive pricing for maritime shipping lines and enhancing road transportation networks.
- Strengthening Trade Relations: Improving trade relations with neighboring countries and resolving trade obstacles.
- Support for Innovation and Research: Encouraging innovation in food manufacturing to increase competitiveness in global markets.
- Increased Participation in International Exhibitions: Expanding participation in international exhibitions to connect with global clients.
- Enhanced Digital Marketing: Utilizing modern technology to enhance presence on e-commerce platforms.
