Egypt ranks second in global sugar byproduct exports
The country shipped 889,000 metric tons of beet pulp and sugar cane bagasse worth USD 176 million in 2025.
Egypt has secured the position of the world's second-largest exporter of sugar byproducts, including beet pulp and sugar cane bagasse. In 2025, the nation's exports represented approximately one-fifth of the global trade in these materials. The total volume shipped reached about 889,000 metric tons, generating USD 176 million (EGP 9.7 billion) in revenue.
This export performance shows significant growth, with the value of shipments increasing by 54 percent from 2024. In the previous year, Egypt also held the second rank globally, capturing an 18 percent share of the market and earning USD 114 million (EGP 6.3 billion). Between 2020 and 2025, the value of these exports grew at a compound annual rate of 17 percent, while the volume increased by 11 percent.
China was the primary importer, purchasing USD 46 million (EGP 2.5 billion) of Egypt's sugar byproducts, accounting for 26 percent of the total. Spain followed with USD 24 million (EGP 1.3 billion), and Ireland with USD 21 million (EGP 1.1 billion). South Korea and Italy were also significant buyers, with imports valued at USD 16 million (EGP 881.3 million) and USD 13 million (EGP 716 million) respectively. These top five markets collectively accounted for 68 percent of Egypt's total exports in this category.
Why it mattersEgyptian farmers and sugar producers are earning significant revenue from exporting sugar byproducts.