Largest Exporter of Grapes: Chile is the leading exporter of grapes in the world. Its long growing season, favourable climate, and advanced cold-storage logistics make it a global powerhouse in the fresh grape trade. Chile supplies grapes to key markets like the U.S., China, and Europe, especially during off-season months when other producers aren’t harvesting.
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Which Country is the Largest Exporter of Grapes in the World?
Chile tops the global chart with over 800,000 metric tonnes of grapes exported each year. It benefits from a southern hemisphere harvest that complements northern hemisphere demand. Key export varieties include Red Globe, Thompson Seedless, and Crimson Seedless.
How Many Grapes Does Chile Export?
Chile exports between 800,000 to 850,000 tonnes of grapes annually. Its grape season (December to April) allows it to dominate global markets during winter and spring in the northern hemisphere. Its export success is supported by strict quality control and advanced post-harvest technologies.
Top 5 Grape Exporting Countries in the World
Rank | Country | Annual Exports (in Metric Tonnes) |
1 | Chile | 800,000+ |
2 | Italy | 600,000+ |
3 | United States | 550,000+ |
4 | South Africa | 320,000+ |
5 | India | 290,000+ |
Note: Figures based on trade data from 2023–2024, sourced from FAO, ITC Trade Map, and World Population Review – Grape Exports by Country
- Chile
Chile is a top player in the international grape export market. Chile's shipping season fills an important supply gap in Europe and North America in their off-seasons, and as a result, Chile grape exports draw extreme demand, especially of red globe and red and white seedless grapes. Chile does a great job of systematically moving product out of the chilly climate, and the fact they are so close to port on the Pacific is a nice little bonus.
- Italy
Italy is the largest grape exporter in Europe, exporting over 600,000 tonnes of grapes annually. Sicilian and Apulian grapes of different types (e.g. Italia, Victoria) are very well regarded; however, Italian grapes are less popular in terms of origin in European distribution. Italy primarily exports very sweet, fresh table grape varieties with a high shelf life.
- United States
U.S. grapefruit exports are around 550,000 tonnes per year, with the majority cultivated and exported from California’s Central Valley. Typically, exports away from the U.S. are primarily to Canada, Mexico, and east Asia. Each are importers of general grape varieties – Autumn King and Flame Seedless are popular example varietals.
- South Africa
SA grape exports exceed 320,000 tonnes, mainly to Europe, and their reverse-season (November-April) exporting responsibilities allow for SA to play a key role in grape exports during the northern hemisphere's winter season.
- India
India has increased grape exports of nearly 290,000 tonnes, with the Middle East and Europe primarily consuming different forms of exported grapes. India’s growing export potential is supported by better farming practices and increasing cold storage facilities.
Interesting Facts About Grape Exports
- Chile Leads the Grape Game
Chile consistently ranks No. 1 in grape exports due to its off-season harvest and Pacific trade routes.
- Seedless Grapes Rule
Seedless varieties like Thompson and Crimson dominate exports for their convenience and sweetness.
- Reverse Seasons Are an Advantage
Southern Hemisphere countries like Chile and South Africa thrive by supplying grapes when northern nations can’t.
- EU Is the Largest Import Market
Europe imports millions of tonnes of grapes annually, mainly from Chile, India, and South Africa.
- India Is Gaining Ground
India is emerging as a global grape exporter with rising quality standards and expanding cold-chain infrastructure.
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