Egypt’s export of chemicals and fertilizers to Saudi Arabia witnessed a remarkable 98% growth in the first eight months of 2026, amounting to approximately $356 million. This figure represents a significant increase from $180 million during the same period last year, establishing Saudi Arabia as the sixth-largest market for Egyptian chemical products. This development, highlighted by the Export Council for Chemical Industries and Fertilisers, indicates a robust demand for Egyptian exports in the region.
Key Growth Drivers in Export Sectors
The remarkable rise in exports can be attributed primarily to booming petrochemical sales, which totaled around $102 million from January to August 2026. Following closely were fertilizers and pesticides, which accounted for $51 million of the exports, while plastics contributed an additional $44 million to the overall figures. Detergents, inks, and paints also formed a notable portion, bringing in $41 million and $31 million respectively. Dry cells, batteries, oils, and extracts each generated approximately $22 million in exports, demonstrating a well-rounded portfolio within the chemical sector.
Other notable exported products included various miscellaneous chemicals valued at $16 million, along with inorganic chemicals reaching $14 million. Moreover, exports encompassed rubber products, organic chemicals, glass products, and adhesives, showcasing the extensive reach of Egyptian manufacturers within the chemical industry.
Strategic Initiatives for Market Expansion
The Export Council is proactively promoting growth by intensifying its marketing efforts in Saudi Arabia. They aim to align their participation in international trade exhibitions with current market demands and performance indicators. One of the key upcoming events is Saudi Agriculture, scheduled for October 19-22, 2026. The exhibition will feature a joint Egyptian pavilion, allowing participating companies to showcase their offerings and connect directly with local buyers and importers.
Moreover, the council has plans to attend four international exhibitions in Saudi Arabia throughout 2026, with ambitions to expand this number to five in 2027. These events will focus on areas such as fertilizers, agricultural supplies, chemicals, plastics, and hospitality products. Khaled Abou El Makarem, Chairperson of the Export Council, emphasized that the dramatic 98% rise in exports underscores the potential for Egyptian companies to strengthen their market presence in Saudi Arabia.
Long-term Strategies for Growth
The council is committed to enhancing engagement with importers and addressing challenges faced by member companies in accessing the Saudi market. This includes providing vital market research and product-related insights to exporters, thus enabling them to spot opportunities and formulate effective expansion strategies. Mohamed Mageed, the council’s Executive Director, pointed out that their approach extends beyond attending exhibitions; it includes fostering direct engagements and follow-ups with importers to maximize commercial returns.
The planned exhibitions for 2027 are expected to broaden the array of Egyptian products available in Saudi Arabia and solidify the sector’s footing across new industries. The increase in chemical and fertilizer exports sets a promising foundation for future growth, with the council leveraging trade data to enhance promotional activities and effectively translate market opportunities into sustainable export success.
This proactive engagement aims not only to boost export numbers but also to forge long-lasting commercial relationships that will facilitate further growth and diversification in the competitive Saudi market.