By Adam Said Adam, Kano
Egypt is expected to import 5.2 million tonnes of soybeans in the 2026/27 marketing year, according to the latest forecast from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
The increase is being fueled by strong growth in the country’s animal protein sector — particularly poultry farms, livestock operations, and the rapidly expanding aquaculture industry — all of which depend heavily on soybean meal as a key ingredient in feed rations.
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As the largest soybean importer in the Middle East, Egypt has limited ability to meet its own demand. Domestic production remains very low, and the USDA estimates it will account for less than 2% of national requirements in 2026/27. This structural deficit means the country must rely almost entirely on international suppliers to keep its feed mills running and to support food security through affordable meat, eggs, and fish.
The report highlights that the United States is likely to maintain its position as Egypt’s top soybean supplier. U.S. soybeans are preferred by Egyptian processors and feed manufacturers because they consistently deliver higher protein levels and lower fiber content compared to beans from competing origins. These nutritional qualities translate into better feed conversion rates for poultry and fish — a critical factor for producers trying to manage costs in a market sensitive to input prices.
Beyond nutrition, logistics and trade relationships also play a role. Egypt’s crushing industry converts imported whole soybeans into meal and oil, with the meal going almost exclusively into animal feed.
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As demand for animal protein continues to rise with population growth and urbanization, the country’s soybean import bill is expected to remain a key component of its agricultural trade.
