German fresh fruit and vegetable imports decline

Imports of fresh fruits and vegetables to Germany decreased again in the first half of 2023. About 3% less was imported, corresponding to 650,000 tons less compared to a few years ago. On an annual basis, this amounts to 1.2 million tons less. 

Nevertheless, the financial value of imported products increased. The total value was 7.34 billion euros, which is 8% more than in previous years. As a result, average prices were about 10% higher, especially for products such as bell peppers and oranges.

Imports of bananas and cucumbers stable

Although the general trend shows a decline in many imported products, there were exceptions such as imports of bananas and cucumbers, which remained stable. In contrast, imports of tomatoes, apples and oranges fell more, with decreases of 4%, 14% and 9%, respectively. Notable is the 12% decline in bell peppers, while imports of avocados and mangoes increased.

Especially less from Spain and the Netherlands

In terms of countries of origin, deliveries from the major players Spain and the Netherlands fell significantly. Together, these countries are responsible for almost half of all imports. Imports from Spain fell by 10% and from the Netherlands by 7%. Compared to two years ago, Germany even imported a 25% less from the Netherlands.

Deliveries from Italy also decreased. On the other hand, countries such as South Africa, Morocco and Peru saw their exports to Germany increase. A notable detail is Germany's growing imports of Moroccan tomatoes, from 27,000 tons in the first half of 2021 to 43,000 tons in the same period this year.

Fruitandvegetablefacts.com