Egypt’s garlic exports to the US jump sixfold in 2025

Egypt has emerged as a significant new supplier in the US garlic market in 2025, exporting record volumes during the first nine months of the year amid global supply disruptions and shifting trade dynamics.

The United States imported around 2,500 tonnes of Egyptian garlic between January and September 2025, valued at more than $6 million, according to a report by EastFruit. This marks a sixfold increase compared with 2024 and exceeds Egypt’s total garlic exports to the US over the past decade, underlining a sharp turnaround in the country’s market position.

Egypt first accessed the US garlic market in 1993, but shipments remained irregular for more than two decades. Even after exports began stabilising around 2015, annual volumes rarely crossed 800 tonnes, keeping Egypt firmly in the category of a niche or 'exotic' supplier. The US market has historically been dominated by China, Mexico, Argentina and Spain, which together account for about 95% of total US garlic imports.

That balance began to shift in 2025. Supply shortages from traditional exporters, combined with lingering trade disputes and tariff measures initiated during the Trump administration, prompted US importers to diversify sourcing. Higher costs and trade uncertainty surrounding Chinese, Spanish and Mexican garlic created an opening for alternative origins.

As a result, US buyers significantly increased purchases from Egypt and Vietnam, positioning them as competitive substitutes. By June and July 2025, Egypt’s share of US garlic imports had climbed to nearly 10%, transforming the country from a marginal supplier into what market analysts now describe as a strategic partner for US importers.

The analysis by EastFruit found that Egypt’s success reflects improvements across its garlic value chain, including better crop management, improved post-harvest handling, and stronger compliance with international quality and phytosanitary standards. Competitive pricing and the ability to supply during periods of tight global availability have further strengthened Egypt’s appeal.

Beyond the United States, Egypt has also expanded garlic exports to Spain, one of Europe’s key trading hubs, reinforcing its growing footprint in global garlic trade. The dual expansion into both the US and European markets suggests Egyptian exporters are increasingly capable of competing with established suppliers on quality, volume and reliability.