Read: The Global Watermelon Industry in 2025 – Market Trends, Challenges, and Future Outlook

Introduction

The global watermelon market has seen a significant boom in recent years, driven by increasing consumer demand for fresh produce and health-conscious diets. Watermelon is not only a popular fruit due to its refreshing taste but also provides numerous health benefits, including hydration and essential vitamins. This report aims to explore the top 10 countries investing in large-scale watermelon farming, examining their production volumes, financial investments, and market trends.

1. China

China is the world leader in watermelon production, accounting for approximately 70% of the total global output. As of 2022, China produced over 70 million metric tons of watermelons. The country’s favorable climate, vast agricultural land, and advancements in farming technology contribute to its dominance in the watermelon market.

Financially, the Chinese government has invested heavily in agricultural technologies and infrastructure, with over $15 billion allocated to agricultural modernization in 2021. This investment has improved irrigation systems and increased crop yields, allowing farmers to expand their watermelon production. The export value of Chinese watermelons reached $1.2 billion in 2022, demonstrating the country’s robust presence in international markets.

2. Turkey

Turkey ranks second in watermelon production, with an annual output of around 4 million metric tons. The country’s warm climate and fertile soil make it an ideal location for watermelon farming. Major watermelon-producing regions include Antalya and Mersin, where farmers practice both traditional and modern farming techniques.

In terms of investment, Turkey has seen a gradual increase in funding for agricultural projects, with approximately $2 billion directed towards enhancing irrigation and farm technology over the last five years. The Turkish watermelon export market has been growing steadily, reaching an estimated value of $450 million in 2022.

3. India

India is emerging as a significant player in the watermelon market, with production levels reaching approximately 3.5 million metric tons in 2022. The country’s diverse climatic conditions allow for watermelon cultivation in various regions, with major production occurring in states like Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh.

Investments in large-scale watermelon farming in India have been boosted by government initiatives promoting agricultural innovation and sustainability. In 2021, the Indian government allocated $1.5 billion to support farmers in adopting modern farming techniques. The export of watermelons from India is expected to grow, currently valued at around $250 million.

4. United States

The United States is a significant player in the global watermelon market, producing approximately 3 million metric tons annually. Major watermelon-producing states include Florida, Texas, and California. The U.S. watermelon industry benefits from advanced agricultural technologies and extensive research into crop management.

In 2022, the U.S. watermelon market was valued at $1.5 billion, with exports amounting to around $500 million. The USDA has been instrumental in providing support to watermelon farmers, with initiatives focused on pest management and sustainable farming practices. Investment in large-scale watermelon farming has been bolstered by private sector funding, estimated at over $300 million in recent years.

5. Brazil

Brazil has emerged as a key player in the watermelon industry, producing nearly 2.5 million metric tons annually. The country’s northeastern region, particularly Bahia, is known for its watermelon production.

Brazil’s government has recognized the importance of agriculture in its economy, with recent investments of about $1 billion aimed at improving irrigation and transportation infrastructure for agricultural products. The Brazilian watermelon export market reached approximately $100 million in 2022, with increasing demand from Europe and North America.

6. Mexico

Mexico is another significant contributor to the global watermelon market, with production levels around 1.7 million metric tons per year. The states of Sonora and San Luis Potosí are the primary watermelon-producing regions.

The Mexican government has invested around $800 million in agricultural development programs to boost production and export potential. In 2022, the export value of Mexican watermelons was approximately $200 million, with major markets including the United States and Canada.

7. Spain

Spain is a leading producer of watermelons in Europe, with an annual output of about 1.5 million metric tons. The country’s favorable Mediterranean climate allows for optimal growing conditions, particularly in regions like Almería and Murcia.

Spanish watermelon exports have been thriving, with a value of around $300 million in 2022. The government has encouraged agricultural investment, directing approximately $500 million toward modernizing farming practices and enhancing export capabilities.

8. Italy

Italy is known for its high-quality watermelons, producing about 1 million metric tons annually. The southern regions, particularly Sicily, are famous for their sweet and juicy varieties.

In recent years, Italy has seen investments of around $400 million in agricultural technologies aimed at increasing watermelon production and improving sustainability. The export market for Italian watermelons reached an estimated $150 million in 2022, primarily targeting European countries.

9. Egypt

Egypt has become a notable player in the watermelon market, with production levels reaching approximately 1 million metric tons annually. The Nile Delta region is particularly known for its watermelon cultivation due to the fertile soil and favorable climate conditions.

The Egyptian government has recognized agriculture as a key economic driver and has invested around $600 million in agricultural development. The export value of Egyptian watermelons was approximately $120 million in 2022, with growing demand from the Middle East and Europe.

10. Iran

Iran rounds out the list of top countries investing in large-scale watermelon farming, with an annual production of about 800,000 metric tons. The country’s diverse climate allows for cultivation across various regions, with significant production in Fars and Kerman provinces.

Iran has invested significantly in agricultural development, with funding of around $500 million aimed at enhancing irrigation and farming methods. The Iranian watermelon export market is valued at approximately $100 million, with increasing interest from neighboring countries and Europe.

Conclusion

The watermelon farming industry is thriving globally, with countries like China, Turkey, and India leading the way in production and investment. As consumer demand for fresh and healthy produce continues to rise, these countries are capitalizing on their agricultural strengths to expand their watermelon markets. With increasing investments in technology and sustainable practices, the future of large-scale watermelon farming looks promising.

In summary, the global watermelon market is characterized by significant production volumes, growing export values, and substantial investments in agricultural development. Countries investing in large-scale watermelon farming are well-positioned to meet the demands of an increasingly health-conscious consumer base, ensuring the fruit’s continued popularity in the years to come.