Cairo: Supply and Internal Trade Minister Sherif Farouk announced that Egypt's strategic reserves of key commodities are currently safe and sufficient. Stocks of several essential goods have surpassed levels recorded at this time last year, reflecting the robustness of the supply system and the state's ongoing efforts to bolster food security.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Minister Farouk highlighted that Egypt has a secure reserve of wheat. The reduced volume of imports this year is seen as a positive sign of increased dependence on domestic production. Reserves of cooking oil and sugar remain stable, with adequate quantities available. Additionally, stocks of fresh and frozen meat and frozen poultry at cooperatives and state-owned companies are sufficient to meet public demand.

Farouk emphasized that the state is implementing a comprehensive strategy to ensure the sustainability of strategic reserves. This includes diversifying supply sources, increasing reliance on local production, and enhancing supply-chain and storage infrastructure. These measures aim to ensure the availability of high-quality goods at affordable prices.

The minister noted that the current reserve levels demonstrate the success of government policies in managing food security and maintaining year-round commodity availability, despite global market fluctuations. He also mentioned that last year's local wheat procurement season saw a significant increase of approximately 17%, with over 4 million tons supplied. This growth indicates rising farmer confidence in the procurement system and the effectiveness of state incentives.

Looking ahead, the government aims to procure 5 million tons of local wheat in the upcoming season, in line with directives to achieve self-sufficiency in subsidized wheat.