Sakr Group for Food Industries achieved $20m in exports during the first nine months of this year. The chairperson of the company, Ahmed Sakr, said that they aim to increase exports by 25% at the end of this year, especially juice and dairy products. Sakr pointed out that the company seeks to enter the Iraqi market through participation in a food exhibition there following a long absence, although Iraq is a large importer of dairy products. He noted that the Iraqi market accounts for 50% of Egypt's total exports of cheese and dairy products, therefore, the company is keen to participate in the Iraqi food exhibition to return to this market. The export problems extend to Sudan, one of the largest importers of Egyptian products, Sakr said, voicing his concerns that the floatation of the Sudanese currency can negatively impact the country's imports, and increase their reliance on domestic products. He praised Egypt's Food Export Council and the Export Development Authority's role in promoting Egyptian products in the Gulfood exhibition, and providing a suitable space for Egyptian exporters to showcase their products in an honourable manner. Sakr added that his company exports its products to many countries in Africa, the Arab Gulf region, and the EU, noting that Egyptian exports face a fierce competition in the European and American markets from Turkey, as it provides great support to its manufacturers and exporters. He called on the Egyptian government to sign more international trade agreements to facilitate the entry of Egyptian products to various markets, and develop technical education to provide trained manpower.
