Egypt Seeks Alternative Corn Suppliers Amid Ukrainian Disruptions

The Egyptian corn market is expected to shift its focus from Ukrainian supplies due to disruptions in shipments. According to UkrAgroConsult, Egypt may increase corn imports from the United States and other North and South American suppliers to meet the needs of its rapidly expanding poultry sector.

USDA forecasts that Egypt's corn imports will reach at least 13 million tons in both the current and next marketing year, setting a new record. This comes as the country's demand for corn continues to rise alongside the growth of the poultry industry, with feed corn consumption expected to reach 17.4 million tons in MY 2026/27.

Ukrainian exports have been constrained due to logistical issues, and even if Black Sea shipments resume, Ukraine will need time to restore normal export volumes. Meanwhile, grain storage facilities are filling up with newly harvested wheat, barley, and rapeseed, adding pressure to export logistics.

The disruption could create opportunities for US corn, particularly as the US harvest begins this autumn. However, analysts warn that greater reliance on US supplies would leave Egyptian buyers more exposed to global price volatility and uncertainty over the US crop outlook.