The recent announcement by the Chairman of the National Food Safety Authority in Egypt (NFSA), Tarek al-Hobi, regarding the reopening of fish exports to European Union countries after a three-year hiatus, is a major news for the food industry in Egypt.
Tarek al-Hobi stressed that this achievement was made possible after the authority took charge of this file at the end of 2021. An integrated control system for the fish supply chain has been put in place, from the primary source, through factories, to its introduction to local markets. This step is of paramount importance both for food safety and for the sustainability of marine fishery resources.
During the latest inspection by the European Commission, recommendations and observations were issued in accordance with the European legislation on the matter. The NFSA worked with all stakeholders to address these recommendations and observations, resulting in the documentary compliance of the control system in June 2023.
A review and audit visit by the European Commission took place from 28 May to 6 June to assess the trade and control system for fishery products in Egypt. The results of this visit were generally positive, so much so that a letter from the Commission informed Egypt of the reopening of the export doors. Thus, Egyptian marine fish exports to European Union countries will be able to penetrate the European market again.
This measure is expected to boost food industry exports, encouraging entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises to seize the opportunities offered by this sector and develop high value-added projects.
In conclusion, the reopening of fish exports to the European Union represents a significant step for Egypt in terms of food trade. This is a testament to the efforts made to meet international standards, while opening up new economic prospects for the country.