U.S. fruit and vegetable imports continue to grow in volume and value

According to an ERS (Economic Research Service) study by USDA, the United States Department of Agriculture, in fiscal year 2021, the value of fruit and vegetable imports hit an all-time high at nearly $39 billion. This record should increase further by +9% during the 2022 financial year (October-September) to reach 42.6 billion USD. Imported volumes should also increase by +3% during the 2022 financial year to reach 29.4 million tonnes.

 

Between fiscal year 2000 and fiscal year 2021, the volume of US imports of fruits and vegetables increased by +124% and the value, adjusted for inflation, increased by +208%. This difference in increases means that the prices of imported fruits and vegetables are higher than 20 years ago.

 

In fiscal year 2021, fresh fruit imports reached $15.5 billion in value, followed by fresh vegetables at $10.5 billion and processed vegetables and processed fruits, which were each around $6. .5 billion USD.

 

The main fresh products imported were berries, tomatoes, avocados and bananas, and the main processed products imported were fruit juices and frozen vegetables.