Egypt’s textile exports reached US$673m in the first ten months of the year, new figures show, with Turkey remaining the top importer.

In the period January to October 2017, textile exports were up 3% from $651m last year, according to local reports quoting figures from Egypt’s Textile Export Council. This includes items such as fibres, yarns, and fabrics.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

Turkey is Egypt’s largest textile customer, importing products worth $230.27m in the ten-month period, followed by Italy with imports of $132.98m. Saudi Arabia is Egypt’s third largest textile export market, valued at $26.79m in the ten months, followed by Tunisia at $21.85m, according to Egypt Today. Meanwhile, Egypt’s textile exports to Germany and Portugal, reached $16.89m and $13.19m respectively. 

Egypt has been looking to boost its export of ready-made garments, with many companies exhibiting at the recent Destination Africa event in Cairo.

Textile Export Council chairman, Hassan Eshra, said a number of bilateral meetings were held with international buyers during the event. It is hoping to increase the number of exhibitors from Egypt and Africa by 50% for next year’s event.

In light of the Trade Ministry’s plan to support the country’s textile industry, Eshra said a delegation of foreign companies who have visited the textile city in Minya Governorate have pledged to inject investment into Minya in 2019.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Egypt’s Ministry of Trade and Industry has been exploring several initiatives to increase textile investment and export rates. Currently being studied are plans for a new textile city, along with the national strategy for spinning, weaving and ready-made garments. The aim is to “promote the vital industry” in all stages of production, from cotton to the finished product.

Egypt mulls national strategy to boost textile exports

Just Style Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Just Style Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact

Excellence in Action
From bio-based durable water repellents to 90–95% wastewater recovery, Archroma’s dual win in the 2025 Just Style Excellence Awards highlights its sustainability-first approach. Find out how PHOBOTEX® NTR-50 and the Mahachai ZLD project are helping apparel and textile players meet tightening global regulations.

Discover the Impact