A Historic Return to the Arab Equestrian Market
In a landmark development for the equestrian industry, Egypt has officially resumed the export of purebred Arabian horses to the Republic of Iraq via a land route through the Kingdom of Jordan. Facilitated by the General Cooperative Society for Horse Development and Breeding—operating under the Ministry of Agriculture's Central Administration for Agricultural Cooperation—this move marks the end of an 18-year pause.
Saeed Sharabash, Head of the Association, announced that the first shipment consisted of seven purebred Arabian horses. The transfer was successfully completed in strict compliance with approved veterinary and commercial protocols, signaling a robust return of Egyptian horses to a region deeply invested in equestrian heritage.
Strategic Cooperation and Strict Veterinary Standards
The successful export was the result of extensive collaboration across multiple government bodies:
- The Ministry of Interior & European Commission: Approved the rigorous veterinary quarantine facilities, a foundational step for facilitating international exports.
- The Ministry of Agriculture & Foreign Affairs: Coordinated proactively with Jordanian authorities at the Gulf of Aqaba to ensure a seamless transit process for the horses before their final arrival in Iraq.
Professor Alaa Farouk, Minister of Agriculture, provided continuous support and supervision for the export process, emphasizing the government's commitment to the cooperative horse breeding system.
Economic Impact and Customs Exemptions
The Iraqi market represents a highly promising destination for Egyptian horse breeders. The global reputation of Egyptian Arabian horses—renowned for their genetic purity, beauty, and rich history—is expected to drive significant demand.
Crucially, the export process benefits from the Arab League's trade facilitation agreement. The horses were shipped with a certificate of origin issued by the League of Arab States, granting them a full customs exemption. This strategic advantage significantly enhances the competitiveness of Egyptian horses in Arab markets compared to other breeds.
This resumption is a powerful catalyst for Egypt's non-traditional agricultural economy. It intertwines cultural heritage with economic growth, paving the way for:
- Increased foreign currency revenues.
- Incentives for local breeders to elevate production quality.
- New partnerships and joint investments between Egypt and Arab nations in the equestrian sector.
Future Prospects: Expanding Global Reach
Egyptian Arabian horses remain among the most prestigious breeds globally, frequently featured in international races and shows. To maintain this standard, all exported horses undergo strict, internationally compliant veterinary quarantines to guarantee they are disease-free.
Looking ahead, the association has outlined an ambitious export program. Sharabash confirmed plans to export 100 horses in the coming weeks. With upcoming orders anticipated from importers in Jordan, Iraq, and various Gulf countries, Egypt is well-positioned to reclaim its leadership in the global Arabian horse market.
