Introduction
Okra, also known as lady’s fingers or ochro, is a popular vegetable in many parts of the world due to its unique taste and health benefits. In recent years, global demand for okra has been on the rise, leading to an increase in its exports. In this report, we will explore the top 10 major destinations for global okra exports, providing insights into the key markets driving this trade.
1. United States
The United States is one of the largest importers of okra in the world, with a significant portion of its supply coming from countries like Mexico, Honduras, and Guatemala. Okra is a staple in Southern cuisine, where it is often used in dishes like gumbo and fried okra. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the country imported over $20 million worth of okra in 2020, making it a key market for okra exporters.
Key Players:
– Fresh Direct
– Whole Foods Market
– Walmart
2. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is another major destination for global okra exports, with a growing demand for exotic vegetables driving the market. Okra is commonly used in South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine in the UK, making it a popular choice among consumers. According to the UK’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), the country imported over £15 million worth of okra in 2020.
Key Players:
– Tesco
– Sainsbury’s
– Asda
3. United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a key market for okra exporters, with a high demand for fresh produce due to its growing population and tourism industry. Okra is a common ingredient in traditional Middle Eastern dishes, making it a popular choice among consumers in the region. According to the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the country imported over AED 50 million worth of okra in 2020.
Key Players:
– Carrefour
– Spinneys
– Lulu Hypermarket
4. Canada
Canada is a significant importer of okra, with a diverse population driving demand for a wide range of food products. Okra is often used in Caribbean and South Asian cuisine in Canada, making it a popular choice among consumers. According to Statistics Canada, the country imported over $10 million worth of okra in 2020.
Key Players:
– Loblaws
– Metro
– Costco
5. Germany
Germany is a major destination for global okra exports, with a growing trend towards healthy eating driving demand for fresh produce. Okra is commonly used in Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine in Germany, making it a popular choice among consumers. According to the Federal Statistical Office of Germany, the country imported over €12 million worth of okra in 2020.
Key Players:
– Edeka
– Rewe
– Aldi
6. France
France is a key market for okra exporters, with a strong culinary tradition and a high demand for fresh produce. Okra is often used in North African and Caribbean cuisine in France, making it a popular choice among consumers. According to the French Ministry of Agriculture, the country imported over €8 million worth of okra in 2020.
Key Players:
– Carrefour
– Leclerc
– Intermarché
7. Netherlands
The Netherlands is a significant importer of okra, with a well-established market for fresh produce. Okra is commonly used in Surinamese and Antillean cuisine in the Netherlands, making it a popular choice among consumers. According to Statistics Netherlands, the country imported over €6 million worth of okra in 2020.
Key Players:
– Albert Heijn
– Jumbo
– Lidl
8. Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is a major destination for okra exports, with a high demand for fresh produce due to its growing population and changing dietary habits. Okra is a common ingredient in traditional Middle Eastern dishes in Saudi Arabia, making it a popular choice among consumers. According to the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, the country imported over SAR 40 million worth of okra in 2020.
Key Players:
– Danube
– Panda
– Carrefour
9. Australia
Australia is a significant importer of okra, with a diverse population and a growing interest in international cuisine driving demand for exotic vegetables. Okra is commonly used in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine in Australia, making it a popular choice among consumers. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the country imported over AUD 5 million worth of okra in 2020.
Key Players:
– Coles
– Woolworths
– Aldi
10. Japan
Japan is a growing market for okra exports, with a rising interest in healthy eating and international cuisine driving demand for fresh produce. Okra is often used in Japanese fusion dishes, making it a popular choice among consumers. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan, the country imported over ¥500 million worth of okra in 2020.
Key Players:
– Aeon
– Ito Yokado
– Seiyu
In conclusion, the global okra export market is thriving, with these top 10 destinations driving demand for this nutritious vegetable. As consumer preferences continue to evolve towards healthy and diverse food options, the demand for okra is expected to grow in the coming years, presenting lucrative opportunities for exporters in the industry.
