Egyptian families are facing a sharp increase in teh cost of lemons, with prices reaching levels equivalent to five loaves of bread, as the country heads into the holy month of Ramadan [[1]]. The dramatic price surge – more than doubling between October and November 2024 – is attributed to a devastating plant disease impacting lemon tree yields and raising concerns about food affordability for many Egyptians. While othre produce remains relatively stable,the “gum disease” afflicting lemon trees signals a broader vulnerability within Egypt’s agricultural sector [[3]].
Nearly $1.30 per Kilogram! Soaring lemon prices in Egypt are shocking families and making the fruit equivalent in cost to five loaves of bread, as the country prepares for the month of Ramadan amid fears of further increases.
Hatim El Naguib, deputy head of the Vegetables and Fruits Division of the Cairo Chamber of Commerce, told reporters that prices for most vegetables remain stable, with one striking exception: a severe lemon crisis impacting Egyptian households.
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El Naguib attributed the price surge to the spread of what is known as “gum disease” – a destructive affliction that attacks lemon trees from within and slowly kills them. This led farmers to remove large numbers of trees last year, creating a significant supply gap. The situation underscores the vulnerability of Egypt’s agricultural sector to plant diseases.
While the market remains stable for other produce – tomatoes currently selling for around 65 cents per kilogram wholesale and $1.20 for consumers – lemons are reaching astronomical prices of $2.80 wholesale and nearly $3.20 for consumers.
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- Stable Supply: El Naguib confirmed that all other varieties are available in abundant quantities and production is proceeding regularly despite the winter’s cold temperatures.
- Ramadan Concerns: He warned of further price increases for lemons as Ramadan approaches due to increased demand.
- Tomato Prices: He indicated that any potential increases in tomato prices will be temporary (one or two days) and limited (only about 7 cents).
The division is working to regulate supply to achieve price balance, while also working to avoid any spoilage that could affect production volume as harvest seasons continue in most governorates, El Naguib explained.
As production from Upper Egypt governorates like Minya, Assiut, and Sohag comes to an end, the key question remains: Will the coming weeks bring further price shocks, or will the Egyptian table lose the flavor of natural lemon forever?
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