Robust growth in Spain's fresh fruit and vegetable exports

In April, exports of fresh fruit and vegetables from Spain experienced notable growth, reaching 1.1 million tonnes, representing an increase of 14% in volume, and generating 1,780 million euros, 10% more than in the same month last year, according to data from the Customs and Excise Department.

 

Vegetables

During the same month, vegetable exports reached 573,707 tonnes, an increase of 8%, and a value of 814.6 million euros, representing an increase of 2%. Lettuce, tomatoes and cabbages were the most exported products. In detail, lettuce exports in April amounted to 94,953 tonnes, decreasing by 5% in volume and 4% in value, totalling 116 million euros. On the other hand, tomato saw an increase of 19% in volume with 81,392 tonnes, although its value fell by 17% to 119 million euros. Cabbages, on the other hand, showed an increase both in volume, with 73,846 tonnes (up 12%), and in value, reaching 106 million euros, up 11%.

Fruits

Fruit also had an outstanding performance in April, with a 21% increase in volume to 537,434 tonnes and a 17% increase in value, totalling 965 million euros. Citrus fruits, strawberries, watermelons and blueberries were the most exported. Specifically, strawberry exports decreased by 7% in volume to 81,610 tonnes, but their value increased by 9%, reaching 219 million euros.

 

Watermelon recorded the strongest growth in April, up an impressive 55% in volume to 41,198 tonnes and 31% in value to 38 million euros. Blueberries also showed a positive trend, with 23,860 tonnes exported, an increase of 24% and 148 million euros in value, up 12%.

 

Up to April 2024, accumulated exports of fresh fruit and vegetables reached 4.5 million tonnes, with a year-on-year increase of 6.4%, and a value of 7,009 million euros, an increase of 0.5%, according to Customs data.