Cairo: Agriculture and Land Reclamation Minister Alaa Farouk has announced that the European Commission has officially decided to reduce the additional inspection rates for Egyptian citrus shipments to the EU from 20% to 10%. This decision marks a significant step in the trade relations between Egypt and the European Union.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the decision follows a report submitted by Dr. Mohamed El-Mansy, Head of the Central Administration for Agricultural Quarantine. The report detailed successful discussions with the European Commission's Standing Committee regarding Egyptian citrus exports. These discussions highlighted the effectiveness of a new monitoring system implemented by the Egyptian Agricultural Quarantine, which has notably improved the quality and safety of the shipments. This reduction is the second within a year, coming after a previous decrease from 30% to 20% in November 2024.

Minister Farouk emphasized that the decision is a testament to the international recognition of Egypt's enhanced agricultural export monitoring system. This development is expected to boost the competitiveness of Egyptian citrus fruits, which are Egypt's leading export crop, in global markets. The new inspection rate is set to take effect 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Minister Farouk also lauded the Egyptian Trade Representation Office in Brussels, led by Minister Plenipotentiary for Trade Nasser Hamed, for its crucial role in facilitating technical communications and clarifying European requirements. He further commended the efforts of the Agricultural Services and Follow-up Sector and the Central Administration for Agricultural Quarantine in maintaining high standards for Egyptian agricultural exports.