Introduction
Okra, known for its unique taste and slimy texture, is a popular vegetable in North America. In this report, we will explore the top 10 countries in North America that import okra, providing insights into their import volumes, market trends, and key players in the industry.
1. United States
Import Volume and Value
The United States is the largest importer of okra in North America, with a significant demand for this vegetable in various culinary dishes. In 2020, the country imported over 50,000 metric tons of okra, valued at approximately $60 million.
Market Trends
The market for okra in the United States is driven by the growing popularity of ethnic cuisines, particularly those from South Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. Okra is a key ingredient in dishes such as gumbo, bhindi masala, and callaloo, leading to a steady increase in demand for this vegetable.
Key Players
Some of the major companies involved in importing okra into the United States include Fresh Direct, Sysco Corporation, and Walmart. These companies play a crucial role in ensuring a steady supply of okra to meet the growing demand in the market.
2. Canada
Import Volume and Value
Canada is another significant importer of okra in North America, with a growing demand for this vegetable among its diverse population. In 2020, Canada imported over 10,000 metric tons of okra, valued at approximately $15 million.
Market Trends
The market for okra in Canada is influenced by the country’s multicultural population, with okra being a popular ingredient in dishes from South Asia, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. As a result, the demand for okra is expected to continue to rise in the coming years.
Key Players
Some of the key companies involved in importing okra into Canada include Loblaws, Sobeys, and Costco. These companies play a vital role in ensuring a consistent supply of okra to meet the needs of consumers across the country.
3. Mexico
Import Volume and Value
Mexico is also a significant importer of okra in North America, with a growing demand for this vegetable in the country. In 2020, Mexico imported over 5,000 metric tons of okra, valued at approximately $8 million.
Market Trends
The market for okra in Mexico is driven by the popularity of traditional dishes such as gumbo and mole, which require okra as a key ingredient. Additionally, the increasing awareness of the health benefits of okra has also contributed to the growing demand for this vegetable in the country.
Key Players
Some of the major companies involved in importing okra into Mexico include Bodega Aurrera, Soriana, and Walmart. These companies play a crucial role in ensuring a steady supply of okra to meet the demand from consumers and restaurants.
4. Dominican Republic
Import Volume and Value
The Dominican Republic is a notable importer of okra in North America, with a steady demand for this vegetable in the country. In 2020, the Dominican Republic imported over 3,000 metric tons of okra, valued at approximately $5 million.
Market Trends
The market for okra in the Dominican Republic is influenced by the country’s culinary traditions, with okra being a popular ingredient in dishes such as sancocho and locrio. The demand for okra is expected to continue to grow as consumers seek out traditional recipes that include this versatile vegetable.
Key Players
Some of the key companies involved in importing okra into the Dominican Republic include Supermercados Nacional, La Sirena, and Carrefour. These companies play a crucial role in supplying okra to meet the needs of consumers and restaurants across the country.
5. Jamaica
Import Volume and Value
Jamaica is another significant importer of okra in North America, with a strong demand for this vegetable in the country. In 2020, Jamaica imported over 2,500 metric tons of okra, valued at approximately $4 million.
Market Trends
The market for okra in Jamaica is driven by the popularity of traditional dishes such as callaloo and ackee and saltfish, which feature okra as a key ingredient. The demand for okra is expected to continue to rise as consumers seek out authentic Jamaican cuisine.
Key Players
Some of the major companies involved in importing okra into Jamaica include Hi-Lo, MegaMart, and Progressive Grocers. These companies play a crucial role in ensuring a consistent supply of okra to meet the growing demand in the market.
6. Trinidad and Tobago
Import Volume and Value
Trinidad and Tobago are significant importers of okra in North America, with a steady demand for this vegetable in the country. In 2020, Trinidad and Tobago imported over 2,000 metric tons of okra, valued at approximately $3 million.
Market Trends
The market for okra in Trinidad and Tobago is influenced by the country’s diverse culinary heritage, with okra being a popular ingredient in dishes such as pelau and curry. The demand for okra is expected to continue to grow as consumers seek out traditional recipes that feature this versatile vegetable.
Key Players
Some of the key companies involved in importing okra into Trinidad and Tobago include Massy Stores, Pennywise, and Tru Valu. These companies play a vital role in ensuring a consistent supply of okra to meet the needs of consumers and restaurants across the country.
7. The Bahamas
Import Volume and Value
The Bahamas are notable importers of okra in North America, with a growing demand for this vegetable in the country. In 2020, The Bahamas imported over 1,500 metric tons of okra, valued at approximately $2 million.
Market Trends
The market for okra in The Bahamas is driven by the popularity of traditional dishes such as conch chowder and peas ‘n rice, which often include okra as a key ingredient. The demand for okra is expected to continue to rise as consumers seek out authentic Bahamian cuisine.
Key Players
Some of the major companies involved in importing okra into The Bahamas include Solomon’s SuperCenter, Super Value, and Cost Right. These companies play a crucial role in ensuring a steady supply of okra to meet the growing demand in the market.
8. Belize
Import Volume and Value
Belize is a significant importer of okra in North America, with a growing demand for this vegetable in the country. In 2020, Belize imported over 1,000 metric tons of okra, valued at approximately $1.5 million.
Market Trends
The market for okra in Belize is influenced by the country’s diverse cultural influences, with okra being a popular ingredient in dishes such as rice and beans and hudut. The demand for okra is expected to continue to grow as consumers seek out traditional recipes that feature this versatile vegetable.
Key Players
Some of the key companies involved in importing okra into Belize include Brodies, Save U, and UNO. These companies play a vital role in ensuring a consistent supply of okra to meet the needs of consumers and restaurants across the country.
9. Guatemala
Import Volume and Value
Guatemala is a notable importer of okra in North America, with a steady demand for this vegetable in the country. In 2020, Guatemala imported over 800 metric tons of okra, valued at approximately $1 million.
Market Trends
The market for okra in Guatemala is driven by the popularity of traditional dishes such as jocón and pepián, which often include okra as a key ingredient. The demand for okra is expected to continue to grow as consumers seek out authentic Guatemalan cuisine.
Key Players
Some of the major companies involved in importing okra into Guatemala include La Torre, La Fragua, and Walmart. These companies play a crucial role in ensuring a steady supply of okra to meet the growing demand in the market.
10. Costa Rica
Import Volume and Value
Costa Rica is also a significant importer of okra in North America, with a growing demand for this vegetable in the country. In 2020, Costa Rica imported over 500 metric tons of okra, valued at approximately $800,000.
Market Trends
The market for okra in Costa Rica is influenced by the country’s culinary diversity, with okra being a popular ingredient in dishes such as olla de carne and arroz con pollo. The demand for okra is expected to continue to rise as consumers seek out traditional recipes that feature this versatile vegetable.
Key Players
Some of the key companies involved in importing okra into Costa Rica include Walmart, Auto Mercado, and Super Compro. These companies play a vital role in ensuring a consistent supply of okra to meet the needs of consumers and restaurants across the country.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the import of okra in North America is driven by the diverse culinary traditions and growing awareness of the health benefits of this versatile vegetable. The top 10 importing countries in North America play a crucial role in meeting the demand for okra among consumers and restaurants, ensuring a steady supply of this popular vegetable in the market. As the popularity of ethnic cuisines continues to rise, the demand for okra is expected to grow, presenting opportunities for companies in the industry to expand their market presence and offerings.
