Beni suef: Chairman of the Food Industries Chamber at the Federation of Egyptian Industries (FEI), Ashraf El-Gazaerly, has highlighted the crucial impact of the medicinal plants and essential oils sector on Egypt's national economy, industry, job market, and farming community's livelihoods.

According to State Information Service Egypt, El-Gazaerly pointed out that the sector has emerged as a leading force in the agricultural export system, achieving a remarkable increase in exports, which are projected to reach $852 million by 2025 compared to $400 million in previous years. His comments were made during the inauguration of the fourth session of the medicinal and aromatic plants festival hosted by Beni Suef governorate on October 18-19, under the patronage of Beni Suef Governor Mohamed Ghoneim.

El-Gazaerly emphasized that the medicinal and aromatic plants sector is a cornerstone of Egypt's agriculture and export framework. The sector is noted for its considerable growth potential and rising global demand, marking it as a key area for the future of Egyptian agricultural exports.

He further stated that the Food Industries Chamber is a strategic partner and chief supporter of the festival and the medicinal and aromatic plants sector at large, recognizing it as a burgeoning export sector in the Upper Egypt governorates, which are renowned for their cultivation of these plants.

El-Gazaerly underscored that the chamber's strategic involvement in the festival for the fourth year running showcases its dedication to advancing Egypt's leadership in the cultivation, manufacturing, and export of medicinal plants and essential oils. The chamber aims to boost the competitiveness of Egyptian food products and increase their contribution to the economy, industry, and exports.