Brazilian firms participating in this year’s Food Africa, held in Cairo from December 3 to 5, reported securing deals during the event or anticipating successful negotiations in the near future. The companies aimed to expand their export channels and expressed optimism about achieving this goal.
The Brazilian delegation attended the fair under the Halal do Brasil project, led by the Arab-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) and the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil). This initiative focuses on promoting Brazil’s halal-certified products, which comply with Muslim dietary guidelines.
Expanding Presence in Egypt
Julio Mariucci, export sales manager at the Coperaguas agro-industrial cooperative, highlighted the importance of the Egyptian market—the cooperative’s second-largest export destination after India.
“Our participation was an excellent opportunity to reinforce our presence in Egypt. We closed significant deals and have already set our strategy with buyers for 2025,” said Mariucci. Coperaguas exports beans, popcorn, and peanuts to Egypt.
Meanwhile, the Alta Paulista Mixed Agricultural Cooperative (CAMAP) aimed to reestablish its foothold in Egypt, a market it had exited due to pricing challenges. According to director Evandro Luiz Jurevits, the gradual reduction of import tariffs under the Egypt-Mercosur free trade agreement has enhanced competitiveness. The tariffs are expected to reach zero by 2025.
“We secured promising leads, and we believe this will help us return to the Egyptian market,” Jurevits noted, adding that once the new peanut harvest is available, the company will be better positioned to close deals.
Opportunities Beyond Egypt
ABCC’s head of international projects, Fernanda Dantas, praised the fair’s vibrant business environment. She revealed plans for a larger Brazilian presence at the 2025 edition of Food Africa, including a bigger booth and more participating companies.
“There’s significant demand for non-premium processed products, which presents an opportunity to introduce many items,” Dantas said. However, she pointed out the absence of Brazilian açaí producers, suggesting their inclusion next year with tasting sessions to attract potential buyers.
Michael Gamal, head of ABCC’s Cairo office, emphasized Brazil’s strong brand recognition in Egypt. “The name ‘Brazil’ carries an excellent reputation, drawing people to explore our booth. There’s potential for commodities as well as chocolates, cereals, and nuts,” Gamal added.
With strong demand and opportunities for diversification, Brazilian companies are poised to deepen their engagement in Egypt and explore other regional markets.
