Egypt Fish Feed Market By Product Type (Plant Based, Fish & Fish Products, Microorganism), By Form (Pellet, Granules, Flakes, Sticks, Powder), By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Egypt Fish Feed Market was valued at USD 2.24 Million Tons in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 3.21 Million Tons by 2030 with a CAGR of 9.16% during the forecast period. 

The Egypt fish feed market has experienced substantial growth in recent years, driven by the country's expanding aquaculture industry. As one of Africa's leading aquaculture producers, Egypt's favorable climate and abundant water resources have facilitated the rapid development of fish farming, particularly in regions such as the Nile Delta. This growth has led to an increased demand for high-quality fish feed, essential for optimizing fish health and maximizing yields. The market offers a diverse range of feed types, including extruded, pelleted, and powdered forms, catering to various fish species like tilapia, catfish, and mullet. Extruded feeds, known for their superior digestibility and nutrient retention, have gained popularity among fish farmers aiming to enhance production efficiency. Both domestic and international feed manufacturers play significant roles in the market, with local companies leveraging their understanding of regional farming practices, while global players introduce advanced formulations and technologies. The Egyptian government has implemented supportive policies and initiatives to bolster the aquaculture sector, focusing on sustainable practices and food security. However, challenges persist, including fluctuating raw material prices and the need for more stringent quality control measures. 

Despite these hurdles, the market's outlook remains positive, with ongoing investments in research and development, infrastructure improvements, and training programs for fish farmers. As consumer awareness regarding the nutritional benefits of fish continues to rise, the demand for aquaculture products is expected to grow, further propelling the fish feed market. In summary, Egypt's fish feed market is on an upward trajectory, underpinned by a thriving aquaculture industry and supportive governmental frameworks, positioning it as a pivotal component of the nation's food production system.

Key Market Drivers

Increasing Consumer Demand for Seafood

The growing consumer preference for seafood is another critical factor driving the expansion of Egypt’s fish feed market. As dietary habits shift towards protein-rich and healthier food choices, fish has become an increasingly popular protein source due to its nutritional benefits. Fish consumption is rising across Egypt, fueled by urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and greater awareness of the health advantages associated with seafood. This growing demand has intensified fish farming activities, leading to increased requirements for high-quality aquafeed. 

Expanding retail and foodservice sectors also play a key role in boosting demand for fish, further stimulating the need for enhanced aquaculture production. Supermarkets, restaurants, and hotels are increasing their seafood offerings, prompting fish farmers to scale up production. In response, the fish feed industry has evolved to provide tailored solutions that enhance fish growth rates and improve product quality.

With rising health consciousness among consumers, there is a growing preference for organically farmed fish and antibiotic-free aquaculture products. This shift has encouraged feed manufacturers to develop specialized feeds free from artificial growth promoters and chemical additives. Additionally, fortified fish feeds with added omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals are being introduced to meet consumer expectations for high-quality seafood.

Despite strong market growth, challenges such as seasonal fluctuations in fish demand and feed price volatility persist. However, as consumer awareness and purchasing power continue to increase, Egypt’s aquaculture industry is expected to expand further, driving sustained demand for premium fish feed products.

Technological Advancements in Feed Production

The Egypt fish feed market has witnessed significant technological advancements in recent years, transforming the efficiency and sustainability of feed production. Innovations in feed formulation and processing techniques have enabled manufacturers to produce highly nutritious and easily digestible feeds, which contribute to enhanced fish health and growth. The adoption of extrusion technology, for instance, has resulted in the development of floating and slow-sinking pellets that optimize feed conversion ratios. These modern feeds help reduce waste and improve nutrient absorption, leading to healthier fish stocks and higher yields for fish farmers. According to FAO data, the livestock sector is expected to play a crucial role in achieving Egypt’s Vision 2030. The Egypt Sustainable Agricultural Development Strategy Towards 2030 outlines a key objective of increasing per capita animal protein consumption by 4g per day by 2030. This goal aims to enhance animal, poultry, and fisheries production while optimizing the animal food basket to favor cost-effective local sources. The strategy emphasizes investments in expanding beef cattle, milk, and poultry production to meet the rising demand for animal-based foods while reducing reliance on imports.

Another major advancement in feed production is the incorporation of functional additives, including probiotics, prebiotics, and enzymes. These ingredients enhance fish digestion, strengthen immunity, and improve overall health, reducing the need for antibiotics and other medication. With increasing concerns over the environmental impact of fish farming, many feed manufacturers are also exploring alternative protein sources such as insect meal, algae-based proteins, and plant-based ingredients to replace traditional fishmeal. This shift reduces pressure on marine ecosystems and aligns with global sustainability goals.

Automation and digitalization have also revolutionized feed production in Egypt. Advanced manufacturing plants utilize automated blending and extrusion processes, ensuring consistent quality and reducing production costs. Additionally, smart feeding systems equipped with sensors and artificial intelligence (AI) are being adopted in aquaculture farms to optimize feed usage, prevent overfeeding, and minimize waste. These technologies not only enhance fish farm profitability but also contribute to resource conservation and environmental sustainability.

Despite these advancements, challenges such as the high initial investment required for modern feed production facilities remain. However, ongoing research and collaboration between industry players and research institutions are expected to drive further innovation in the sector. As technological advancements continue to refine feed quality, improve production efficiency, and promote sustainability, the Egypt fish feed market is poised for long-term growth.

Shift Towards Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices

The increasing focus on sustainability in aquaculture is a significant driver of Egypt’s fish feed market. With growing awareness of environmental concerns, including overfishing, habitat destruction, and water pollution, fish feed manufacturers and fish farmers are adopting more sustainable practices. One key trend in this shift is the reduction of dependence on fishmeal and fish oil, which are traditionally used as protein sources in aquafeed but contribute to overfishing. Instead, there is a growing interest in plant-based protein sources such as soybean meal, canola protein, and even novel alternatives like insect meal and algae-based proteins. In October 2024, Egypt reinforced its commitment to achieving Zero Hunger on World Food Day. As part of its Vision 2030, the country’s first Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) focuses on "Improving Egyptians’ Quality of Life and Raising Living Standards," emphasizing poverty eradication, food security, inclusive healthcare, quality education, adequate housing, and cultural development. This strategic objective aligns with the United Nations’ (UN) global SDGs, particularly SDG 2: "Zero Hunger," which seeks to eliminate hunger, enhance food security and nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture. By prioritizing food security, improving nutrition, and fostering sustainable agricultural practices in rural communities, Egypt is actively working toward achieving this goal.

Sustainable feed production also involves minimizing the carbon footprint of manufacturing operations. Many feed producers in Egypt are investing in energy-efficient production techniques, optimizing logistics, and utilizing locally available raw materials to reduce transportation-related emissions. Moreover, the formulation of feeds with high digestibility and better nutrient retention has gained importance, as it helps in reducing fish waste and improving water quality in aquaculture systems. This is crucial for ensuring the long-term viability of fish farming operations and minimizing the environmental impact of the industry.

Another major trend is the incorporation of functional feed additives that enhance fish health and disease resistance. These include probiotics, prebiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to improved fish immunity and growth performance. By reducing the need for antibiotics and synthetic growth enhancers, these eco-friendly feed solutions align with global trends in responsible aquaculture practices.

Despite these positive developments, challenges such as the higher cost of sustainable feed ingredients and the need for further research on alternative proteins remain. However, as consumer preferences shift towards environmentally friendly seafood products and regulatory pressures increase, the adoption of sustainable fish feed practices is expected to accelerate. The growing emphasis on sustainability not only benefits the environment but also enhances the long-term profitability and resilience of Egypt’s aquaculture sector.

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Key Market Challenges

Environmental and Sustainability Challenges in Aquafeed Production

The Egypt Fish Feed Market faces increasing environmental and sustainability challenges, primarily due to concerns about overfishing for fishmeal production, the carbon footprint of feed manufacturing, and the ecological impact of aquaculture waste. As the industry grows, there is mounting pressure from regulatory authorities, environmental groups, and international buyers to adopt more sustainable feed practices.

One of the key environmental concerns is the excessive reliance on fishmeal and fish oil derived from wild-caught fish. The continuous harvesting of fish for feed production contributes to the depletion of marine resources, disrupting aquatic ecosystems and leading to unsustainable fishing practices. This has prompted global calls for the aquaculture industry to reduce its dependence on wild-caught fishmeal by adopting alternative protein sources. However, while plant-based proteins and insect meal offer viable solutions, large-scale implementation in Egypt remains limited due to cost constraints and lack of technological advancement.

Additionally, the carbon footprint associated with fish feed manufacturing and distribution is another growing concern. Feed production involves energy-intensive processes such as grinding, extrusion, and pelletization, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, inefficient feed utilization in aquaculture ponds leads to uneaten feed accumulation, increasing water pollution and harming surrounding aquatic environments. Addressing these sustainability issues requires the adoption of eco-friendly feed formulations, precision feeding techniques, and improved waste management practices.

Limited Access to Affordable High-Quality Fish Feed for Small-Scale Farmers

A critical challenge in the Egypt Fish Feed Market is the limited access to affordable, high-quality fish feed for small-scale fish farmers, who make up a significant portion of the country’s aquaculture sector. The high cost of nutritionally balanced feed, combined with supply chain inefficiencies and inconsistent availability, restricts many small-scale producers from optimizing fish growth and achieving higher yields.

The cost barrier is a major issue, as premium fish feed with high protein content and essential nutrients is often too expensive for small and medium-sized farms. Many farmers resort to using lower-quality feed or even alternative, unregulated feed sources, which can negatively impact fish health, growth rates, and overall productivity. This results in lower profit margins, making it difficult for small-scale farmers to expand their operations or compete with larger commercial aquaculture enterprises.

Additionally, logistical and distribution challenges further limit access to high-quality fish feed in rural and remote areas. Many feed mills and suppliers are concentrated in key aquaculture hubs, making transportation costs a burden for farmers located in less-developed regions. Inconsistent feed supply chains can lead to periodic shortages, forcing farmers to rely on suboptimal feed or adjust feeding schedules, ultimately affecting fish production cycles.

Moreover, there is often a lack of awareness and technical knowledge among small-scale fish farmers regarding optimal feeding practices and feed conversion efficiency. Without proper training and support, farmers may overfeed or underfeed their fish, leading to increased production costs and environmental degradation.

Key Market Trends

Rising Investment in Aquaculture Infrastructure

Significant investments in Egypt’s aquaculture sector have been a major driver of the fish feed market. As fish farming operations expand and modernize, the demand for high-quality, nutritionally balanced fish feed continues to grow. Both public and private sector players are investing heavily in infrastructure development, including the construction of large-scale fish farms, hatcheries, and processing units. These developments have led to an increase in commercial aquaculture production, creating a sustained need for efficient and cost-effective fish feed solutions.

One of the key areas of investment is the establishment of intensive and semi-intensive aquaculture systems, which require specialized feed formulations to maximize fish growth and production efficiency. Unlike traditional extensive farming, these modern systems rely on scientifically formulated feed to ensure optimal nutrition and faster growth cycles. As a result, feed manufacturers are continuously innovating to cater to the specific dietary requirements of various fish species farmed in Egypt. In December 2024, a study by the Dutch Embassy in Egypt and Koudijs & Kapo Feed (KKF), an Egyptian-Dutch animal nutrition joint venture, examined pollutants in cultured fish and their acceptability in the EU market. Titled Water Quality and Food Safety in Egyptian Tilapia Farming, the study analyzed 18 water and fish samples from Egypt’s three largest aquaculture hubs—Kafr Al-Sheikh, Sharqiya, and Beheira. The results indicated that food safety hazards at the farm level were minimal, confirming Egypt's ability to maintain high production standards. According to Nader Shams, KKF’s technical support manager, “The flesh of most fish is free of contaminants.” However, the study emphasized the need for significant improvements in post-harvest handling to meet food safety regulations and enhance export potential.

Additionally, investments in research and development (R&D) are playing a critical role in enhancing feed quality and sustainability. Local and international companies are collaborating to develop advanced feed formulations that improve feed conversion ratios, enhance fish immunity, and reduce environmental impact. Some firms are also investing in vertically integrated operations, where they control the entire value chain from raw material sourcing to feed production and distribution, ensuring greater efficiency and product consistency.

While investments in aquaculture infrastructure have created new growth opportunities, challenges such as fluctuating raw material costs and logistical barriers remain. However, as the Egyptian government continues to support the expansion of the aquaculture sector through policy incentives and funding, the fish feed market is expected to witness sustained growth. With ongoing infrastructure advancements and increasing private sector participation, the demand for high-performance fish feed will continue to rise in the coming years.

Expansion of Export Opportunities for Egyptian Aquaculture Products

The expansion of export opportunities for Egyptian aquaculture products is significantly driving the growth of the country’s fish feed market. Egypt has emerged as a leading producer of farmed fish in Africa and the Middle East, with tilapia being the dominant species cultivated for both domestic consumption and international trade. With increasing global demand for high-quality seafood, Egypt’s aquaculture sector is witnessing heightened interest from foreign markets, leading to the need for high-performance fish feed to meet export standards. In June 2024, Egypt’s Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation pledged support and collaboration with The Gambia in the aquaculture sector. The commitment was made during a meeting in Cairo with The Gambia’s Minister of Fisheries and Water Resources. The Egyptian minister highlighted key areas of cooperation, including training and knowledge transfer, technology sharing, advanced fish farming techniques, hatchery development, and fish health management.

Several factors are contributing to the rise in export potential. Firstly, Egypt’s strategic geographic location provides easy access to key markets in Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, making it a crucial player in regional seafood trade. Additionally, trade agreements and government initiatives to promote seafood exports have further strengthened Egypt’s position in the global market. To meet international quality and safety standards, fish farmers are increasingly turning to premium aquafeed formulations that enhance growth rates, improve flesh quality, and ensure product consistency.

Another major factor is the growing preference for sustainably sourced seafood in global markets. Importing countries have stringent requirements regarding environmental sustainability and feed traceability. In 2022, Dutch animal nutrition and fish feed producer Nutreco received a USD 4.8 million grant to establish feed mills in remote African communities, including Egypt. This has prompted Egyptian feed manufacturers to innovate with eco-friendly formulations that minimize the use of fishmeal, incorporate plant-based protein sources, and reduce the environmental footprint of aquaculture operations. Moreover, investment in processing and cold-chain infrastructure is facilitating the export of value-added seafood products, increasing the overall demand for high-quality feed.

Despite these opportunities, challenges such as compliance with international regulations, fluctuating global seafood prices, and competition from other exporting nations persist. However, as Egypt continues to modernize its aquaculture industry and expand export capabilities, the demand for advanced, nutritionally optimized fish feed is expected to rise, ensuring steady market growth in the coming years.

Segmental Insights  

Form Insights

Based on Form, Pellets dominate the Egypt Fish Feed Market due to their superior feed conversion efficiency, ease of handling, and high nutritional density. As the preferred choice for commercial aquaculture, pellets offer a well-balanced mix of essential nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, and minerals, ensuring optimal fish growth and improved production yields. Their compact and uniform structure minimizes feed wastage, making them a cost-effective option for fish farmers.

Pelleted fish feed is highly versatile and available in various sizes and formulations, catering to different fish species and growth stages. This adaptability makes it ideal for Egypt’s dominant aquaculture species, such as Nile tilapia, which require consistent and nutrient-rich diets. Additionally, pellets have a slow sinking rate, allowing fish to consume them efficiently, reducing water pollution, and maintaining pond water quality.

The dominance of pellets is further driven by technological advancements in feed extrusion and processing, enabling manufacturers to produce high-quality, floating, and sinking pellets tailored to specific fish farming needs. Large-scale commercial fish farms in Egypt prefer pellets due to their high digestibility and ability to enhance fish health and immune function, ultimately boosting overall yield and profitability.

While granules and other feed forms have niche applications, pellets remain the most widely adopted due to their efficiency, availability, and cost-effectiveness. As Egypt’s aquaculture sector continues to expand, the demand for pelleted fish feed is expected to remain strong, reinforcing its position as the leading segment in the market.

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Regional Insights

Cairo was the most dominating region in the Egypt Fish Feed Market due to its high aquaculture activity, large consumer base, and well-developed infrastructure supporting fish farming operations. As the country's economic and commercial hub, Cairo has a strong demand for fish feed driven by both large-scale aquaculture enterprises and smaller fish farms supplying local markets. The region's well-established distribution networks and accessibility to high-quality raw materials further contribute to its leadership in the market.

Cairo benefits from its proximity to major feed manufacturers and processing facilities, ensuring a steady supply of fish feed to meet the growing needs of the aquaculture sector. Additionally, the region's strong transportation links facilitate the efficient movement of feed products across the country, making it a strategic center for fish feed production and distribution. The increasing demand for seafood among Cairo’s expanding population has also led to a rise in intensive and semi-intensive fish farming operations, further driving the need for high-quality fish feed. Government initiatives supporting aquaculture development in and around Cairo, including technological advancements in fish farming and feed production, have strengthened the region’s dominance in the market.

With a combination of robust aquaculture infrastructure, high fish consumption, and an efficient supply chain, Cairo remains the leading region in Egypt's fish feed market. As the aquaculture industry continues to grow, the demand for fish feed in Cairo is expected to remain strong, reinforcing its position as the dominant regional player.

Recent Developments

• In October 2024, the Tilapia Welfare Egypt Project successfully improved the welfare of 10% of Egypt’s farmed Nile tilapia, benefiting over 260 million fish. This initiative is a collaboration between Scotland-based Ethical Seafood Research (ESR), England-based FAI Farms, and Aquavet Egypt. Launched in early 2024, the project aims to reduce fish mortality rates and lower production costs by providing training to fish farmers, enhancing fish care, monitoring water quality, and improving handling practices for better welfare and farming outcomes.
• In January 2025, surging feed costs have placed Egypt’s meat and poultry sectors on the verge of crisis. The situation has become increasingly critical, forcing many farmers out of business and further In February 2025, Zambia and Egypt signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in fish and aquaculture research. Egypt aims to advance research in the sector, while Zambia seeks to leverage Egypt’s expertise and technology in fisheries and livestock. The agreement is expected to strengthen Zambia’s capacity to boost fish feed production and lower current costs, supporting the country’s efforts to develop a more sustainable and efficient aquaculture industry.
• In January 2023, Evergreen Egypt United announced its expansion into the Caribbean with a $40 million investment in port infrastructure and fisheries. The company plans to develop port facilities and fish farming operations in Guyana, with funding provided by the African Export-Import Bank (Afrexim Bank). As part of a broader partnership facilitated by Afrexim Bank to strengthen investment ties between Africa and Caribbean nations, 11 out of the 15 member states of the Caribbean Community formalized their collaboration with the bank in July 2023. 
• In January 2025, Egypt’s Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation announced the issuance of 13,238 licenses in 2024 for livestock, poultry, and feed projects, including 6,467 licenses for small-scale livestock farming. Additionally, 1,292 digital licenses were processed through online platforms. The ministry approved 8,566 feed mix registrations, comprising 5,500 local and 3,066 imported registrations, and granted 550 approvals for new livestock and poultry projects in desert areas. Furthermore, the ministry provided technical support to 602 feed factories, encompassing 1,323 production lines, and conducted inspections at 135 facilities through 66 committees to ensure regulatory compliance. It also authorized the import of production inputs and approved the export of fish feed, poultry feed additives, processed poultry products, and frozen poultry to international markets.

Key Market Players

• BioMar Group
• Skretting Egypt
• Aller Aqua Group
• The Egyptian German Company for Integrated Industrial Solutions (EGIS)
• Egyvet Care Co.
• Benchmark Holdings plc
• AQUA International for Food Industries
• De Heus Animal Nutrition (Koudijs Animal Nutrition

Report Scope:

In this report, the Egypt Fish Feed Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Egypt Fish Feed Market, By Product Type:

o   Plant Based

o   Fish & Fish Products

o   Microorganism

• Egypt Fish Feed Market, By Form:

o   Pellet

o   Granules

o   Flakes

o   Sticks

o   Powder

• Egypt Fish Feed Market, By Region:

o   Cairo

o   Alexandria

o   Giza

o   Qalyubia

o   Port Said

o   Suez

o   Rest of Egypt

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Egypt Fish Feed Market.

Available Customizations:

Egypt Fish Feed market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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