CAIRO, Feb 5 (MENA) – Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli said on Wednesday Egypt’s agricultural exports reached $10.6 billion in 2024, marking a 17% increase.

He added that the government aims for 15-20% annual export growth, with expectations of a trade surplus before 2030.

During a press conference following the weekly cabinet meeting, Madbouli noted that Egypt’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for the non-oil private sector hit 50.7 in January, the highest level in four years, signaling improved business confidence and a positive economic outlook.

On regional developments, he confirmed Egypt’s continued efforts to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, with nine aid convoys dispatched so far in collaboration with the National Alliance for Civil and Developmental Work and the Tahya Misr Fund. Egyptian hospitals are providing medical treatment to injured Palestinians, with the government committed to continuing support.

During his visit to Iraq, Madbouli reaffirmed Egypt and Iraq’s joint stance on Palestine, supporting a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as the capital.

He also highlighted Iraq’s appreciation of Egyptian construction firms for their efficiency in rebuilding projects, leading to new direct project contracts. Talks included potential oil sector cooperation, with an Egyptian delegation set to visit Iraq soon.

Additionally, the Premier addressed Egypt’s demographic shift, revealing that the country’s birthrate fell below two million annually for the first time since 2007, attributing the decline to increased public awareness and government initiatives to manage population growth.

He called this a significant step toward sustainable economic growth, driven by increased public awareness and government efforts to manage population growth. (MENA)

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