Egypt Leads World in Palm Date Production with 1.8M Tons Annually

Egypt leads the world in palm date production, with an annual yield exceeding 1.8 million tons, accounting for 18% of global output, according to a statement from the Egyptian cabinet. However, despite this large production, Egypt’s date exports remain relatively low, with only 50,000 tons shipped abroad each year.

The announcement comes as the government intensifies efforts to boost the date palm sector to meet growing domestic and international demand. As part of this push, a new initiative has been launched to support thousands of date farmers and enhance the industry's marketing capabilities. The initiative aims to increase Egypt's global market share in dates while supporting rural development and benefiting local farmers.

Earlier this month, the Food Export Council announced that Egypt’s food industry exports had increased to USD 4.6 billion in 2024, up from USD 3.9 billion in 2023, reflecting an 18% growth. Egypt’s main food exports include soft drink concentrates, flour and starch, and frozen strawberries.