ARC and ICARDA Launch New Book on the Political Economy of Egypt’s Wheat Sector

On 9 November 2025, the Agricultural Research Center (ARC), together with the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) and National Agricultural Research System (NARS) partners, launched the book Political Economy of the Wheat Sector: Seed Systems, Varietal Adoption and Impacts at ARC headquarters in Cairo, Egypt.

The launch received support from Prof. Adel Abd El Azim, President of ARC, and brought together a wide group of stakeholders. Participants included Dr. Maher El Maghraby, Vice President of ARC, representatives from ICARDA, universities, seed companies, input providers, regulatory agencies, development partners, and officials from farmer organizations, the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, and the Ministry of Internal Supply and Trade.

During the event, Dr. Zewdie Bishaw Research Team Leader - Seed systems, International Nurseries and seed Health at ICARDA delivered a presentation on the origins of the study and its main learned lessons. He reflected on the evolution of Egypt’s wheat sector and remarked:

“As we take a moment down memory lane, we recall the long journey of Egypt’s wheat sector, from early varietal development and seed production efforts to the establishment of a more integrated and diverse seed system. This evolution reflects the sustained collaboration among ARC, ICARDA, and national partners, grounded in a shared vision for improving wheat productivity, farmer livelihoods, and food security.” Dr. Zewdie Bishaw Research Team Leader

He explained how the sector has moved from the earlier Central Administration of Seeds to a more diverse structure with stronger research and development. The book brings together scientific evidence and field-based insights that document progress in varietal adoption, seed sector performance, and impacts on productivity and resilience. It is intended to support policymakers, researchers, and practitioners working to strengthen Egypt’s wheat seed system.

In the final discussion, Dr. Yigezu A. Yigezu, Principal Agricultural Economis at ICARDA encouraged participants to use the publication as a basis for future action. He welcomed ARC’s plan to print additional English copies and to prepare an Arabic translation so the findings can reach a wider audience.

ICARDA and ARC Egypt share a long-standing partnership built on joint research, capacity strengthening, and national collaboration. Together we continue to work hand in hand to support a more resilient agriculture sector in Egypt and across the dry regions.