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Why did ancient Egyptians trade with the Lebanese city of Byblos?

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Side view of the Sphinx with the Great Pyramid of Khufu rising behind it on the Giza Plateau near Cairo, Egypt. — ancient Egypt Side view of the Sphinx with the Great Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops) rising in the background, Giza, Egypt.

Ancient Egyptians traded with the Lebanese city of Byblos primarily because it served as the chief harbor for the export of cedar and other valuable woods to Egypt.1

Because Egypt lacked sufficient timber resources, this trade was vital for the civilization's construction and architectural needs. Byblos became a major trading center as a result of this demand, and the two regions maintained close commercial and religious ties for centuries. In addition to wood, the trade relationship facilitated the exchange of various goods; for instance, Egyptians exported papyrus to the Aegean through Byblos, while Phoenician merchants brought items such as wine, fine linen, and other luxury goods to Egyptian ports.123

The relationship was so significant that during the 12th dynasty, Byblos became an Egyptian dependency, and the city's chief goddess, Baalat, was even worshipped within Egypt.1