Egypt Tops Global Hookah Exports in 2024, with Middle East and North Africa as Key Markets

Key Points:

·Export Position: Egypt maintains its status as the world's largest exporter of waterpipe tobacco, with exports reaching 27,000 tons and $127.4 million in export value by 2024. 

·Growth Trends: Between 2020 and 2024, the export value of Egypt's waterpipe tobacco is projected to grow at an annual average of 7%, with export volume increasing by 4% annually. 

·Main Markets: Iraq, Libya, Syria, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait are the main export markets for Egypt's waterpipe tobacco, accounting for a total of 70% of its overall export volume. 

·Competitive Advantage: Egypt's waterpipe tobacco exports benefit from its strong local production base, competitive pricing, diverse flavors, and relatively low production costs. 

·Market Impact: The demand for Egypt's waterpipe tobacco in regional and international markets continues to rise, solidifying its position as a global hub for waterpipe tobacco exports.

【2Firsts News Flash】According to Daily News Egypt on July 20th, 2024, Egypt maintained its position as the world's largest exporter of shisha tobacco (maassel), accounting for 32% of the global export volume with a total export value of $127.4 million and an export volume of 27,000 tons.

According to the Food Export Council, Egypt's maassel exports have shown a steady growth trend in recent years. From 2020 to 2024, the export value is projected to increase by 7% annually, while the export volume is expected to grow by 4% each year. Just from 2023 to 2024, the year-on-year growth in export value reached 15%, highlighting the increasing demand for the product in regional and international markets.

According to the committee report, in 2024, Iraq became the largest market for Egyptian maassel, importing $32 million worth of water pipe tobacco, accounting for 25% of Egypt's total export value. Libya followed closely behind with imports worth $24 million (19%), Syria with imports worth $14 million (11%), Saudi Arabia with imports worth $13 million (10%), and Kuwait with imports of approximately $7 million (5%).

These five countries collectively account for approximately 70% of Egypt's total hookah tobacco exports last year, highlighting the strong presence and competitiveness of Egyptian hookah tobacco in key regional markets.

The Food Export Council emphasized that Egypt's sustained strong performance reflects its strong local production capabilities, competitive pricing, and the diversity of flavors offered by Egyptian producers. These factors, along with relatively lower production costs, skilled labor, and institutional support, have enabled Egyptian maassel to maintain a leading position in established and emerging markets.

The committee also pointed out that the continued growth in regional demand and the exploration of new export destinations have driven this upward trend, further solidifying Egypt's position as a global hub for exporting shisha tobacco.