European Union Eases Import Rules for Egyptian Potatoes in Major Boost to Exports

The European Union has approved new legislation easing import procedures for Egyptian potatoes, a move the Egyptian government said Sunday would reduce costs and streamline access to one of its top agricultural export markets.

Egypt’s agriculture ministry said the updated regulation — EU Regulation No. 1289/2025 — increases the allowed shipment weight and lowers the number of samples required for inspection, simplifying exports from designated disease-free zones.

Mohamed El-Mensy, head of Egypt’s Central Administration of Plant Quarantine (CAPQ):

"⁠This is a significant step forward for Egyptian agricultural exports, especially potatoes."

The changes follow extensive consultations between Egyptian authorities and EU counterparts, involving the quarantine authority, the national brown rot control project, and the potato export committee at the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade.

Egypt exported a record 1.3 million tonnes of potatoes this season, according to the ministry. The new EU rules are expected to enhance efficiency and improve the competitiveness of Egyptian produce in European markets.

The government said it is continuing efforts to grow exports and ensure steady supply to global markets.