Red Sea crisis causes drop in Egyptian orange exports

Frequent attacks by the Yemeni Houthi rebel group on civilian ships have forced a halt to container shipping operations along the Red Sea and the Suez Canal. Currently, shipping companies remain undecided on whether to resume standard routes or opt for diversions, increasing uncertainty within the supply chain. According to Produce Report, the Suez Canal and the Red Sea are crucial waterways for Egypt, and the suspension of maritime operations has posed a serious crisis for Egyptian citrus producers and exporters. Consequently, there is now a shortage of Egyptian oranges in Asian markets. Egyptian exporters are currently exploring alternative routes for shipping fruit, while producers have been forced to suspend the orange harvest due to concerns about a possible price collapse. However, identifying viable alternatives is a challenge for Egyptian exporters, because the diversion around the Cape of Good Hope would not only add considerable distance but also increase costs. Egypt is ...