Egypt is ramping up support for its agricultural sector with plans to double financing under its Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) to EGP 10 billion ($204 million), reinforcing the government’s strategy to boost agricultural exports, attract private investment and strengthen national food security.

The expansion, announced by ADP Director Hamdy Azzam during a meeting hosted by the Egyptian Lebanese Businessmen’s Association, marks one of Egypt’s most significant agricultural financing initiatives in recent years. The programme currently manages EGP 5 billion ($102 million) and will substantially increase lending capacity for farmers, agribusinesses and agricultural exporters.

Foreign currency loans to support exporters

A cornerstone of the expansion is the introduction of foreign currency financing alongside Egyptian pound loans. Eligible agricultural projects will be able to access loans of up to $1.5 million, providing exporters with greater financial flexibility while helping generate additional foreign exchange earnings.

The initiative aligns with the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation’s broader strategy to expand agricultural production, strengthen agro-processing industries and improve Egypt’s competitiveness in global food markets.

Investment targets key agricultural sectors

The ADP will continue financing strategic sectors including livestock, poultry, fisheries, food processing, contract farming, modern irrigation, milk collection centres, renewable energy systems, post-harvest infrastructure and agricultural value chains.

Beyond lending, the programme also provides technical assistance to improve operational efficiency, strengthen project sustainability and enhance long-term productivity across the agricultural sector.

Development finance drives sustainable growth

Unlike traditional government funding programmes, the ADP operates entirely through development financing provided by international financial institutions, eliminating pressure on Egypt’s state budget while mobilising investment into high-impact agricultural projects.

The programme currently works through a network of 16 participating banks, with Commercial International Bank serving as the lead agent bank.

Aligned with Egypt’s Sustainable Agricultural Development Strategy 2030, the initiative is expected to encourage greater private-sector participation, create rural employment opportunities and support long-term food security as the country modernises its agricultural economy.

With demand for agricultural products continuing to rise across regional and international markets, Egypt’s expanded financing programme positions the sector for stronger export growth while reinforcing its role as a key contributor to economic development and foreign currency generation.