Q1. Could you start by giving us a brief overview of your professional background, particularly focusing on your expertise in the industry?

I am a Chemical Engineer, graduated from Swansea College / University of Wales.

My working experience began at the Arab Potash Company (APC) in 1983, at the Potash Production facilities in the Dead Sea, Jordan. Then, I moved to KEMAPCO to establish a joint venture between APC & Kemira Grow How (now YARA) in Aqaba, where the production facilities included KNO3 and DCP, as well as HNO3.

Established & Operated JAFCCO in JORDAN for SA, SOP, PA, TSP, DCP, and CC. 2 Years in China for the production of Potash in CONGO. 8 Years with EVERGROW for specialty fertilizers SA, SOP, DCP, PA, GCC. Currently, a Technical Consultant for the Fertilizers Industry. 

Q2. What role do sustainability regulations or green agriculture policies play in shaping demand for low-impact or specialty fertilizers?

The green regulations & sustainability of Specialty fertilizers are pushing the farmers and producers for the slow-release & bio-based fertilizers. It is expected that the specialty fertilizers will grow at the expense of conventional fertilizers. 

Q3. How is technology influencing the formulation and development of new-generation specialty fertilizers today?

The Technology is playing a major role in the formation & development of new-generation specialty fertilizers due to many factors or tools available, such as drones, sensors, satellite imaging, nanotechnology, micronutrient coatings, data formation, biotechnology, digital farming, etc. The subject is rather big.

Q4. How would you describe the current size and scale of the specialty fertilizer market in Egypt and the surrounding region?

The Egyptian market is modest compared to the Saudi market due to better governmental control & regulations. In 2024 the market size was 200 m $ compared to Saudi with 1.6 B $, CAGR 5.5% through 2030.

The Middle East & Africa size was 239 m$. In Jordan & Israel, the drip irrigation plays a significant role in the demand.

Overall, the horticulture trade, greenhouses, cultivation, and water efficiency are driving demand worldwide with CAGR estimated at 4 – 6 %.

Q5. Which regional markets are emerging as high-growth destinations for Egyptian specialty fertilizers, and what product categories are gaining traction there?

The strategic location of EGYPT is contributing to satisfy the emerging markets, especially in SAUDI, where the growth in specialty fertilizers is CAGR 6 - 7 % to 2033, mainly due to heavy investment. UAE growth CAGR is 5% to 2030. Sudan, Libya, Kenya, Oman, Qatar, etc., are also emerging as high-growth destinations.

Q6. Which companies or types of players do you see gaining traction in segments like water-soluble fertilizers, chelated micronutrients, or calcium nitrate?

The Companies that will continue supplying Egypt with specialty fertilizers are EVERGROW for SOP. Misr Eld Awlya produces several chelated micronutrients.

AGRO Egypt International produces micronutrient Chelated products.

Other companies such as Abu-Qir, MOPCO, and Alex Fert will continue to contribute to the fertilizer Industry.

Q7. If you were an investor looking at companies within the space, what critical question would you pose to their senior management?

My message to management & owners alike is patience, research, development, and innovation. Stay two steps ahead.