Slight decline in EU ice cream production in 2023

In 2023, the European Union produced approximately 3.2 billion liters of ice cream, a 1.4% decrease compared to the previous year. In 2022, production stood at 3.3 billion liters. This decline indicates a slight shift in the market, with some major producers experiencing reduced volumes.

Germany leads production but offers lowest prices

In 2023, Germany was the largest ice cream producer in the EU, with a production of 612 million liters. France and Italy followed with 568 million and 527 million liters, respectively. Despite this leading position, Germany also offered the cheapest ice cream, with an average price of €1.8 per liter. France and Italy had higher prices, at €2.2 and €2.6 per liter, respectively. Notably, Austria produced the most expensive ice cream, with an average price of €7.7 per liter. Hungary and Greece also had higher prices, at €4.8 and €3.7 per liter, respectively.

Strong export performance by France

EU ice cream exports to non-EU countries grew by 5% in 2023, reaching 261 million kilograms. France led these exports, shipping 52 million kilograms of ice cream, accounting for 20% of total EU exports. Other key exporters included the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and Ireland. In contrast to exports, ice cream imports from non-EU countries decreased by 8%, further tilting the trade balance in favor of the EU.

The dynamics of the European ice cream market thus reveal a complex picture of shifting production forces, pricing strategies, and international trade flows.

Ec.europa.eu