Egypt’s ready-made garment (RMG) exports experienced a significant 22% increase in the first four months of 2025, reaching $1.028 billion compared to $840 million during the same period in 2024, according to the Apparel Export Council of Egypt (AECE).
Monthly export figures were strong, with April 2025 exports rising 25% year-over-year to $223 million, up from $179 million, and March exports growing 23% to $254 million.
The United States remains the leading export destination for Egyptian garments, importing $384 million between January and April—a rise of 11% from last year’s $345 million. Europe ranked second, with imports surging 39% to $259 million, up from $186 million the previous year.
Exports to Arab countries increased modestly by 6% to $190 million, while exports to African countries outside the Arab states witnessed a remarkable 101% growth. Additionally, shipments to other global markets jumped 50%, totaling $190 million compared to $127 million in the prior year.
Fadel Marzouk, Chairperson of AECE, attributed this robust growth to rising global demand, a wider export base, and focused Council initiatives to explore and diversify markets. The Council’s strategy targets annual export growth of 30–35%.
Efforts to enhance competitiveness include workforce training, support for SMEs, international promotional campaigns, and addressing export challenges directly.
Looking forward, AECE aims to double garment exports by 2031, targeting $12 billion in annual overseas sales by expanding into new African and Asian markets, leveraging trade agreements, and focusing on value-added products. Plans include modernizing production and establishing new textile and garment cities in Fayoum and Minya.
Marzouk emphasized the need for continued government support through export rebates, streamlined logistics, and accessible financing to boost exports and strengthen the national economy.