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Sun-dried aromatic plants for traders, packing factories, export

Opportunity Description: Sun dried herbal and aromatic plants - Hot Air-dried herbal and aromatic plants.
Sun is less energy intensive, farming of aromatic plants requires less chemical fertilizers than other crops and many aromatic plants have a competitive edge in Luxor.
PRODUCT: Dried herbal and aromatic plants and herbs
Sector: Sustainable Agriculture and Food Processing
Market: Local consumers, Export
Initial Investment Required: EGP 53,000
Details Available: Opportunity Study
Market Potential: Traders for local markets and export according to quality. Sun drying will expand to Hot Air drying - could expand to retail packing - factory for sterilization and texturing for better quality in drinks and stronger aroma.
Supply: Selected herbal and aromatic plants - mix of produce based on the season (Mint, Hibiscus, Basil) - example for hibiscus - work on leaves (Mint and Hibiscus).
Process: Manual washing and sun drying on open trays, could be covered for protection (Hot Air drying, washing laying in drying chambers) - packing in special boxes (for export, zipped packs). For export, packing requirements may apply - note manual separation of the economic part of the produce.
Human Resources: Technical and Business Development Manager – 1
Operations and Maintenance – 2
Financial: CAPEX required EGP 30,000
3-month OPEX required EGP 23,000
IRR expected is 61%
Payback period around 2.4 years
Risk: Risk – lack of awareness of farmers to produce high quality harvest that is suitable.
Mitigation - partnership with farmers along with strong awareness for post-harvest to ensure good agricultural practices.
Risk - marketing challenges: attempt to market the product before production
Mitigation - requires strong business development.
IMPACT: Environmental - Reducing waste of herbal and aromatic plants and decrease transportation cost of undried produce.
Social - Increase return on agriculture activities.