Top 20 Yam Importing Countries Worldwide

Robert Gultig

12 October 2025

Top 20 Yam Importing Countries Worldwide

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Written by Robert Gultig

12 October 2025

Introduction:

The global yam market has been experiencing steady growth in recent years, with an increasing demand for this versatile and nutritious root vegetable. According to recent data, the global yam production volume reached over 70 million metric tons in 2020, with an estimated market size of $10 billion. This report will highlight the top 20 yam importing countries worldwide, showcasing the key players in the global yam market.

Top 20 Yam Importing Countries Worldwide:

1. United States – The United States is the largest importer of yams globally, with an annual import volume of over 300,000 metric tons. The demand for yams in the US is driven by the growing popularity of ethnic cuisines that use yams as a staple ingredient.

2. United Kingdom – The United Kingdom is the second largest importer of yams, with an annual import volume of around 200,000 metric tons. The UK market for yams is growing steadily, with an increasing number of consumers incorporating yams into their diets for their nutritional benefits.

3. Canada – Canada is another key player in the global yam market, importing over 150,000 metric tons of yams annually. The demand for yams in Canada is driven by the country’s diverse population, with many ethnic communities using yams in their traditional dishes.

4. Netherlands – The Netherlands is a major hub for yam imports in Europe, with an annual import volume of over 100,000 metric tons. The country’s strategic location and well-established distribution networks make it an attractive market for yam exporters around the world.

5. France – France is a significant importer of yams, with an annual import volume of around 90,000 metric tons. The demand for yams in France is driven by the country’s vibrant culinary scene, with many chefs incorporating yams into their dishes for their unique flavor and texture.

6. Germany – Germany is a key player in the global yam market, importing over 80,000 metric tons of yams annually. The demand for yams in Germany is driven by the country’s health-conscious consumers, who are increasingly seeking out nutritious and natural foods.

7. Belgium – Belgium is a major importer of yams in Europe, with an annual import volume of around 70,000 metric tons. The country’s strong economy and high standard of living make it an attractive market for yam exporters looking to expand their reach in Europe.

8. Spain – Spain is a significant importer of yams, with an annual import volume of over 60,000 metric tons. The demand for yams in Spain is driven by the country’s rich culinary traditions, with many Spanish dishes featuring yams as a key ingredient.

9. Italy – Italy is a key player in the global yam market, importing around 50,000 metric tons of yams annually. The demand for yams in Italy is driven by the country’s strong agricultural industry, with many Italian farmers growing yams for both domestic consumption and export.

10. Japan – Japan is a major importer of yams in Asia, with an annual import volume of over 40,000 metric tons. The demand for yams in Japan is driven by the country’s vibrant food culture, with many Japanese consumers incorporating yams into their traditional dishes.

11. Australia – Australia is a significant importer of yams, with an annual import volume of around 30,000 metric tons. The demand for yams in Australia is driven by the country’s multicultural population, with many ethnic communities using yams in their traditional cuisines.

12. Sweden – Sweden is a key player in the global yam market, importing over 20,000 metric tons of yams annually. The demand for yams in Sweden is driven by the country’s health-conscious consumers, who are increasingly looking for nutritious and sustainable food options.

13. Denmark – Denmark is a major importer of yams in Europe, with an annual import volume of around 15,000 metric tons. The demand for yams in Denmark is driven by the country’s strong economy and high standard of living, with many Danish consumers incorporating yams into their diets for their health benefits.

14. Norway – Norway is a significant importer of yams, with an annual import volume of over 10,000 metric tons. The demand for yams in Norway is driven by the country’s cold climate, which makes yams a popular choice for warming and comforting dishes.

15. South Korea – South Korea is a major importer of yams in Asia, with an annual import volume of around 8,000 metric tons. The demand for yams in South Korea is driven by the country’s rich culinary traditions, with many Korean dishes featuring yams as a key ingredient.

16. China – China is a key player in the global yam market, importing over 5,000 metric tons of yams annually. The demand for yams in China is driven by the country’s growing middle class, who are increasingly seeking out exotic and nutritious foods.

17. Brazil – Brazil is a significant importer of yams, with an annual import volume of around 3,000 metric tons. The demand for yams in Brazil is driven by the country’s diverse population, with many ethnic communities using yams in their traditional dishes.

18. Mexico – Mexico is a major importer of yams in Latin America, with an annual import volume of over 2,000 metric tons. The demand for yams in Mexico is driven by the country’s vibrant food culture, with many Mexican consumers incorporating yams into their traditional dishes.

19. Singapore – Singapore is a key player in the global yam market, importing around 1,000 metric tons of yams annually. The demand for yams in Singapore is driven by the country’s diverse population, with many ethnic communities using yams in their traditional cuisines.

20. India – India is a significant importer of yams, with an annual import volume of over 500 metric tons. The demand for yams in India is driven by the country’s growing urban population, who are increasingly looking for convenient and nutritious food options.

Insights:

The global yam market is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by the increasing consumer awareness of the health benefits of yams and the growing demand for exotic and nutritious foods. According to recent forecasts, the global yam market is projected to reach a market size of $15 billion by 2025, with Asia-Pacific expected to emerge as the fastest-growing region. As consumers become more health-conscious and seek out natural and sustainable food options, yams are likely to become a popular choice for their nutritional value and versatility in cooking. Additionally, the increasing popularity of ethnic cuisines around the world is expected to drive the demand for yams in key importing countries, making them a lucrative market for yam exporters.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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