Introduction
Beans are a staple food item consumed worldwide, and the global trade of beans plays a significant role in meeting the demand for this versatile ingredient. In this report, we will explore the top 10 countries that import beans in the world in 2025, highlighting key financial data, industry insights, and trends shaping the global bean market.
1. China
Overview
China is one of the largest importers of beans in the world, with a growing demand for various types of beans such as soybeans, kidney beans, and black beans. The country’s robust economy and increasing urbanization have led to a rise in bean consumption, making it a key player in the global bean market.
Financial Data
In 2025, China imported over $10 billion worth of beans, with soybeans accounting for the majority of imports. The country’s demand for soybeans has been driven by its thriving livestock industry and the popularity of soy-based products in the Chinese diet.
Industry Insights
China’s bean imports are largely sourced from countries like the United States, Brazil, and Argentina, which are major producers of soybeans. The country’s demand for beans is expected to continue growing in the coming years as its population and economy expand.
2. United States
Overview
The United States is a significant importer of beans, particularly soybeans, which are used in various food products and animal feed. The country’s demand for beans is driven by its food processing industry and the export market for soybean products.
Financial Data
In 2025, the United States imported over $8 billion worth of beans, with soybeans accounting for a large portion of imports. The country’s bean imports are essential for meeting domestic demand and supporting its food processing industry.
Industry Insights
The United States sources beans from countries like Brazil, Canada, and Argentina, which are major exporters of soybeans. The country’s bean imports are influenced by global market trends, trade policies, and domestic consumption patterns.
3. Japan
Overview
Japan is a key importer of beans, including soybeans, black beans, and kidney beans, which are used in traditional Japanese cuisine and food processing. The country’s bean imports are driven by its culinary culture and the demand for bean-based products.
Financial Data
In 2025, Japan imported over $6 billion worth of beans, with soybeans being the most significant import. The country’s bean imports are vital for supporting its food industry and meeting the demand for bean products in the Japanese market.
Industry Insights
Japan’s bean imports are sourced from countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia, which are major exporters of soybeans and other types of beans. The country’s bean market is influenced by consumer preferences, culinary trends, and trade agreements.
4. Germany
Overview
Germany is a prominent importer of beans, including soybeans, lentils, and chickpeas, which are used in various food products and recipes. The country’s bean imports are driven by its food industry, consumer demand, and the popularity of plant-based diets.
Financial Data
In 2025, Germany imported over $5 billion worth of beans, with soybeans being a significant import. The country’s bean imports are essential for meeting the demand for plant-based proteins and supporting its food processing industry.
Industry Insights
Germany sources beans from countries like Brazil, the United States, and Canada, which are major exporters of soybeans and other types of beans. The country’s bean market is influenced by consumer preferences, food trends, and sustainability initiatives.
5. Netherlands
Overview
The Netherlands is a key importer of beans, including soybeans, kidney beans, and mung beans, which are used in various food products and international trade. The country’s bean imports are driven by its food processing industry, logistics infrastructure, and global market connections.
Financial Data
In 2025, the Netherlands imported over $4 billion worth of beans, with soybeans accounting for a significant portion of imports. The country’s bean imports are crucial for supporting its food industry, meeting domestic demand, and facilitating international trade.
Industry Insights
The Netherlands sources beans from countries like Brazil, the United States, and Argentina, which are major exporters of soybeans and other types of beans. The country’s bean market is influenced by international trade dynamics, market trends, and consumer preferences.
6. South Korea
Overview
South Korea is a significant importer of beans, including soybeans, black beans, and kidney beans, which are used in traditional Korean cuisine and food processing. The country’s bean imports are driven by its culinary culture, food industry, and consumer preferences.
Financial Data
In 2025, South Korea imported over $3 billion worth of beans, with soybeans being the most significant import. The country’s bean imports are essential for supporting its food industry, meeting consumer demand, and promoting culinary diversity.
Industry Insights
South Korea sources beans from countries like the United States, Brazil, and Canada, which are major exporters of soybeans and other types of beans. The country’s bean market is influenced by culinary traditions, consumer preferences, and trade relations.
7. Spain
Overview
Spain is a prominent importer of beans, including chickpeas, lentils, and kidney beans, which are used in various Spanish dishes and food products. The country’s bean imports are driven by its culinary heritage, food industry, and consumer demand.
Financial Data
In 2025, Spain imported over $2 billion worth of beans, with chickpeas being a significant import. The country’s bean imports are essential for meeting the demand for traditional Spanish dishes, supporting its food industry, and promoting culinary excellence.
Industry Insights
Spain sources beans from countries like Canada, the United States, and Argentina, which are major exporters of chickpeas and other types of beans. The country’s bean market is influenced by culinary traditions, consumer preferences, and food trends.
8. Italy
Overview
Italy is a key importer of beans, including lentils, chickpeas, and kidney beans, which are used in traditional Italian cuisine and food products. The country’s bean imports are driven by its culinary heritage, food industry, and consumer preferences.
Financial Data
In 2025, Italy imported over $1.5 billion worth of beans, with lentils being a significant import. The country’s bean imports are vital for meeting the demand for Italian dishes, supporting its food industry, and promoting culinary excellence.
Industry Insights
Italy sources beans from countries like Canada, the United States, and France, which are major exporters of lentils and other types of beans. The country’s bean market is influenced by culinary traditions, consumer preferences, and food trends.
9. Mexico
Overview
Mexico is a significant importer of beans, including black beans, pinto beans, and kidney beans, which are used in traditional Mexican dishes and food products. The country’s bean imports are driven by its culinary heritage, food industry, and consumer preferences.
Financial Data
In 2025, Mexico imported over $1 billion worth of beans, with black beans being a significant import. The country’s bean imports are essential for meeting the demand for Mexican dishes, supporting its food industry, and promoting culinary diversity.
Industry Insights
Mexico sources beans from countries like the United States, Canada, and Argentina, which are major exporters of black beans and other types of beans. The country’s bean market is influenced by culinary traditions, consumer preferences, and food trends.
10. France
Overview
France is a prominent importer of beans, including lentils, chickpeas, and kidney beans, which are used in traditional French cuisine and food products. The country’s bean imports are driven by its culinary heritage, food industry, and consumer preferences.
Financial Data
In 2025, France imported over $1 billion worth of beans, with lentils being a significant import. The country’s bean imports are vital for meeting the demand for French dishes, supporting its food industry, and promoting culinary excellence.
Industry Insights
France sources beans from countries like Canada, the United States, and Italy, which are major exporters of lentils and other types of beans. The country’s bean market is influenced by culinary traditions, consumer preferences, and food trends.
In conclusion, the global trade of beans is a dynamic and essential component of the food industry, with various countries playing a significant role in importing beans to meet consumer demand and support their domestic food industries. The top 10 beans importing countries in the world in 2025 demonstrate the diverse range of beans consumed worldwide and the importance of international trade in meeting the global demand for this versatile food ingredient.
