Global grape market trends in 2025 and 2026: new consumers and export leaders Emerge

The global table grape industry is entering a new phase of expansion, driven by rising production, shifting consumer preferences, and the emergence of new export powerhouses. Peru has consolidated its position as the world’s leading table grape exporter, surpassing Chile for the fifth consecutive season. However, China is rapidly closing the gap. With nearly 50% of global production, strong domestic availability, and export growth exceeding 12% annually.

Imports Back on the Rise

After a pause in growth due to supply disruptions in 2023, global imports are once again rising. Total imports reached 4.4 million metric tons in 2024 and are on track for a new record in 2025. While China’s imports have declined, increased demand across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America is supporting global trade expansion.

A reshaped global export landscape

China is poised to challenge Peru for the top spot before the decade ends. The report highlights that both countries are on track to approach, or surpass 100 million boxes annually, signaling a potential shift in the global hierarchy. While Peru and China expand, traditional exporters such as Chile and Italy have experienced long-term declines, though both appear to be stabilizing with modest growth projected for the upcoming seasons.

Consumption rising and markets diversifying

Consumer demand remains strong worldwide, with the US expected to reach a record 9 pounds per capita in 2025/26. At the same time, destination markets are evolving. The EU and US remain the world’s largest importers, accounting for 43% of global imports. Southeast Asia is emerging as a key growth region, offering large populations and relatively low per capita availability of table grapes; China, meanwhile, is becoming increasingly self-sufficient, reducing imports as local supply strengthens year-round. Variety preferences are also shifting. Seedless grapes, especially green seedless, are gaining dominance in China and across Asia, while the once-popular Red Globe has dropped to just 12% of China’s imported volume.

Regional performance: winners and challengers

Exports from Peru, Chile, and Brazil rebounded strongly in 2024/25 after weather-related disruptions. Favorable conditions and expanding acreage led to a regional record of 1.3 million metric tons, positioning South America for continued growth. US exports remain far below historical highs, but shipments to North America, especially Mexico, continue to grow steadily. Meanwhile, imports have increased by more than 40% over the past decade, with Chile, Peru, and Mexico supplying most of the volume. South Africa achieved a record export season, with rising demand from North America and the Middle East. The EU is rebounding after years of declining availability. Italy’s vineyard now counts with 60% of plantings of proprietary varieties. Favorable conditions in Spain have contributed to the strongest EU output in seven years.

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