For Mazeed Produce, the season presents both challenges and opportunities, particularly with increasing demand for Egyptian Valencia oranges in China.
Demand for Egyptian oranges in international markets
The Egyptian orange season typically attracts buyers from Europe, the Middle East, the Far East and other destinations. Market conditions vary from one season to another, and the start of this season was slower than the last.
"The start of the Egyptian orange season has not been as swift as it was last season."Reham Kamal, International Marketing and Export Manager, Mazeed Produce
One factor was the continued availability of oranges from competing origins, including Greece, Spain, Turkey and South Africa. At the same time, increased costs across the international supply chain put additional pressure on prices. Despite this, Mazeed Produce continued exporting to customers across Europe, the Far East and the Middle East.
Strong demand for Egyptian Valencia oranges in China
One of the most promising opportunities for Egyptian citrus exporters is China. Mazeed Produce has seen strong demand from China for Egyptian oranges, particularly Valencia, and prepared to load its first containers for the Chinese market during the fourth week of the season.
China is one of the most demanding markets for fruit specification and quality. Meeting those standards requires control throughout the supply chain, and Mazeed Produce's vertically integrated approach helps maintain quality from cultivation through to export.
Rising costs affect the season
The company faced two major challenges: a substantial increase in the cost of cartons and other raw materials compared with the previous season, and a significant rise in international ocean freight to multiple destinations. These expenses inevitably affected the final price of Egyptian oranges and, consequently, international demand. Exporters continue to work on efficiency and cost reduction wherever possible.
New export opportunities for Egyptian citrus
While European markets remain important, emerging markets are creating new opportunities. Japan, India and Brazil represent promising destinations. Spain's strong presence in Europe has increased competition, encouraging Egyptian companies to explore new markets and gradually build volumes, diversifying their customer base and reducing dependence on individual markets.
Why Egyptian Valencia oranges are competitive
Favourable growing conditions, experienced producers and an established export infrastructure allow Egyptian growers to supply fresh oranges to international markets. Valencia is particularly important for its quality and versatility. For Mazeed Produce, quality control begins at the farm and continues through harvesting, sorting, processing, packing and loading.
From farm to international markets
Mazeed Produce operates its own farm and packing house, giving greater control over the product throughout the supply chain. From planting and cultivation to harvesting, selection, processing, packing and loading, each stage is managed for quality and consistency, supported by modern agricultural technology. An experienced export team manages logistics from the farm through to the customer's destination.
The future of Egyptian orange exports
Although higher production and shipping costs created challenges, the outlook remains promising. Strong demand for Valencia oranges in China, together with growing opportunities in Japan, India, Brazil and other markets, shows the potential for continued expansion. Mazeed Produce remains focused on delivering high-quality Egyptian oranges while building reliable, long-term relationships with customers around the world.
