Sisi said that Egypt’s annual wheat consumption has reached 20 million tons, with the state producing half domestically and importing the other half.

Reflecting on Egypt’s agricultural land, Sisi explained that 50 years ago, the country had around 6-7 million feddans of arable land and a population of 30 million. "This equated to one-third of a feddan per person. Now, with 10 million feddans and a population of 100 million, this ratio has dropped to one-tenth of a feddan per person."

Sisi highlighted that during the era of Mohamed Ali, Egypt’s economic conditions were more favorable due to a better land-to-population ratio. Back then, 4-5 million feddans served a population of 4 million, providing one feddan per person, which ensured self-sufficiency in wheat, corn, and cotton, as well as other essentials.

He noted that rural households in the past operated as small productive units, reinforcing Egypt’s self-sufficiency without needing foreign currency for imports. "Now, the reliance on imported goods increases the demand for dollars, putting pressure on the economy."

The president emphasized that producing wheat domestically saves foreign currency and creates job opportunities, while importing requires securing dollar reserves at global market prices.

He urged the public to understand these dynamics to avoid misconceptions about the state's efforts and responsibilities. (MORE)

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