Egypt Ranks Fifth Globally in Tomato Production

Egypt produces 7.1 million tonnes of tomatoes annually across around 382,000 feddans cultivated over three planting cycles.

Egypt ranks fifth globally in tomato production, with annual output reaching 7.1 million tonnes across approximately 382,000 feddans, according to the Agricultural Research Centre at the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation.

Tomatoes are cultivated across three planting cycles throughout the year, helping maintain crop availability and meet market demand. The summer cycle accounts for around 192,000 feddans, followed by approximately 141,000 feddans in the winter cycle and 49,000 feddans in the Nile autumn cycle.

Productivity varies significantly depending on cultivation methods. Open fields produce an average of 15 to 18 tonnes per feddan, while modern greenhouse systems can reach around 60 tonnes per feddan.

The Agricultural Research Centre also reported that Egypt currently imports around 95% of its vegetable seeds. A national strategy is underway to expand local seed production, reduce dependence on imports and lower the cost of imported seeds.

As part of that strategy, the Horticulture Research Institute has developed and registered eight new Egyptian tomato hybrids designed for higher productivity and greater tolerance to diseases and weather fluctuations. The national vegetable seed programme is also working to develop locally adapted varieties suited to Egypt’s climatic and environmental conditions.

Tomato varieties currently cultivated in Egypt include local hybrids such as F25 and newer hybrids developed by the institute. O23 is among the most widely sold varieties due to its productivity and fruit quality, alongside varieties including Adfina, Super Strain B, Elisa, Newton and GS. Their use varies according to season and resistance to conditions including leaf curl virus.