Egypt plans to significantly reduce wheat imports

Starting April 2025, a new policy will be implemented in the baking industry to mix corn flour with wheat flour at a ratio of 1:4. This move is anticipated to save around 1 million tons of wheat and reduce strain on foreign currency reserves, especially if the corn flour is sourced domestically. However, the policy is expected to face resistance from bakers and millers, who express concerns over potential impacts on bread quality. The government's cost savings are estimated to be $1 million, but the subsidized bread program, contributing to the country's budget challenges amidst foreign debt, foreign exchange shortages, and inflation, is set to be discontinued.