Egyptian Sand-Grown Potatoes Dominate Russian Early Crop Imports, Says Expert

Overview Article:
Most of the so-called “early” imported potatoes arriving in Russia come from Egypt, where they are grown directly in desert sand, according to Alexei Krasilnikov, Executive Director of the Russian Potato Union. Нe explained that satellite images reveal circular fields in southwestern Egypt, where potatoes are cultivated in sand without the pressure of black soil, clay, or stones. This results in produce that looks exceptionally clean, smooth, and attractive. However, Krasilnikov noted that the taste differs significantly from Russian potatoes, as sand lacks natural microelements. While Russian potatoes absorb these elements from more complex soils, Egyptian farmers compensate solely with fertilizers and irrigation with artesian water.

Previously, Egyptians grew potatoes in the Nile Delta, but pollution led to an import ban from European countries. This forced producers to relocate to desert areas. After proving the safety of sand-grown potatoes, European nations reinstated imports, and Egypt also gained approval from Russia’s agricultural watchdog, Rosselkhoznadzor. According to the Potato Union, Russia imported 930,000 tons of potatoes in 2025, of which approximately 500,000 tons came from Egypt, 170,000 tons from China, and 82,000 tons from Belarus.