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

Introduction

The global watermelon trade is a significant aspect of the agricultural export and import markets, reflecting not only consumer preferences but also the economic conditions of the producing and consuming countries. Watermelons are a popular fruit due to their high water content, refreshing taste, and nutritional benefits. This report will delve into the top 10 watermelon importing and exporting countries, highlighting their key corporations, trade volumes, and financial data.

Top 10 Watermelon Exporting Countries

Watermelon exportation is a crucial aspect of the agricultural economy for several countries. Below are the top 10 countries leading in watermelon exports, along with their key corporations.

1. Mexico

In 2022, Mexico exported approximately 1.5 million metric tons of watermelons, generating revenues of around $400 million. Major corporations include:

– **Frutas Selectas**: Specializes in organic watermelons and has a robust distribution network in the United States.

– **Agropecuaria Los Angeles**: Known for its high-quality production and exportation to North America and Europe.

2. Spain

Spain is a significant exporter in Europe, with exports reaching about 900,000 metric tons valued at approximately $300 million in 2022. Key players are:

– **Grupo Almeria**: A leader in the European market, exporting various fruits, including watermelons.

– **Hortofrutícola**: Focuses on sustainable farming practices and exports to countries across Europe.

3. United States

The United States exported around 600,000 metric tons of watermelons in 2022, with a market value of roughly $200 million. Prominent companies include:

– **Melon 1**: A cooperative that focuses on quality watermelons and has a significant presence in the domestic and international markets.

– **Prime Produce**: Engaged in exporting premium watermelons to various countries, including Canada and Mexico.

4. Turkey

Turkey exported approximately 400,000 metric tons of watermelons in 2022, earning about $120 million. Key corporations are:

– **Dardanel**: Known for its diverse agricultural products, including watermelons.

– **Özdemir Tarım**: A major player in the Turkish watermelon export market.

5. Brazil

In 2022, Brazil exported around 350,000 metric tons of watermelons, valued at nearly $100 million. Important companies include:

– **Frutas do Brasil**: Engages in large-scale watermelon production and exports primarily to North America.

– **Agropecuária Santa Rita**: Known for its quality produce and efficient supply chain.

6. Italy

Italy exported an estimated 300,000 metric tons of watermelons, generating about $90 million in revenue in 2022. Key firms are:

– **Ortofrutta**: A significant exporter in the Mediterranean region.

– **Fruits & Veggies Italy**: Focuses on organic and conventional watermelons.

7. South Africa

South Africa’s watermelon exports reached approximately 250,000 metric tons, valued at $70 million in 2022. Key players are:

– **Cape Fruit Packers**: A significant exporter in the South African market.

– **Lettuce & Co.**: Known for its quality production methods and sustainable practices.

8. Greece

Greece exported around 200,000 metric tons of watermelons, generating revenues of about $60 million in 2022. Major companies include:

– **Hellenic Fruits**: Focuses on both domestic and international markets.

– **Mediterranean Fruits**: Engaged in sustainable farming and exports to various countries.

9. China

China, while being a major producer, exported about 150,000 metric tons of watermelons, valued at approximately $50 million in 2022. Key corporations are:

– **China National Agriculture Group**: A state-owned enterprise leading in agricultural exports.

– **Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps**: Engaged in large-scale agricultural production.

10. Australia

Australia exported around 100,000 metric tons of watermelons, generating revenues of approximately $30 million in 2022. Important players include:

– **Australian Melon Association**: Engages in promoting and exporting Australian watermelons.

– **Sunfresh**: A key player in the Australian produce market.

Top 10 Watermelon Importing Countries

The following countries are the top importers of watermelon, indicating high demand and consumption.

1. United States

The U.S. is the largest importer of watermelons, bringing in approximately 1.2 million metric tons valued at about $300 million in 2022. The main sources include Mexico and Central America.

2. Germany

Germany imported around 500,000 metric tons of watermelons in 2022, with a market value of $150 million. The primary suppliers are Spain and Italy.

3. United Kingdom

The UK imported approximately 450,000 metric tons of watermelons, generating revenues of about $130 million in 2022. Major suppliers include Spain and South Africa.

4. France

France’s watermelon imports reached around 400,000 metric tons, valued at approximately $120 million in 2022. Key suppliers are Spain and Italy.

5. Netherlands

The Netherlands imported about 350,000 metric tons of watermelons, generating revenues of around $100 million in 2022. The primary sources are Spain and Turkey.

6. Canada

Canada imported approximately 300,000 metric tons of watermelons, with a market value of about $90 million in 2022. Major suppliers include the United States and Mexico.

7. Japan

Japan’s watermelon imports reached around 250,000 metric tons, generating revenues of approximately $70 million in 2022. Key suppliers are the United States and Mexico.

8. Italy

Italy, while a significant exporter, also imported around 200,000 metric tons of watermelons, valued at approximately $60 million in 2022.

9. Australia

Australia imported about 150,000 metric tons of watermelons, generating revenues of around $50 million in 2022. Key suppliers include the United States and New Zealand.

10. South Korea

South Korea imported approximately 100,000 metric tons of watermelons, valued at about $30 million in 2022, with primary suppliers being China and the United States.

Key Corporations in Watermelon Trade

The watermelon trade involves numerous corporations that play significant roles in production, export, and import.

Top Export Corporations

1. **Frutas Selectas** (Mexico): Known for its quality organic watermelons.

2. **Grupo Almeria** (Spain): A leading exporter in Europe with a strong market presence.

3. **Melon 1** (United States): A cooperative focusing on high-quality watermelon production.

4. **Dardanel** (Turkey): Major exporter of various agricultural products, including watermelons.

5. **Frutas do Brasil** (Brazil): Engaged in large-scale watermelon production.

Top Import Corporations

1. **Sysco Corporation** (United States): One of the largest foodservice distributors in North America, importing large quantities of watermelons.

2. **Metro AG** (Germany): A leading wholesale and retail company that imports watermelons for distribution across Europe.

3. **Tesco PLC** (United Kingdom): A major retailer that imports watermelons from various countries.

4. **Coles Group** (Australia): A significant retailer in Australia, importing watermelons primarily from the United States and New Zealand.

5. **Aeon Co., Ltd.** (Japan): A leading retail group that imports watermelons for distribution in its supermarkets.

Conclusion

The watermelon trade is an essential component of the global agricultural market, with significant contributions from various countries and corporations. The top exporting nations, including Mexico, Spain, and the United States, demonstrate robust production capabilities and a strong presence in international markets. On the other hand, the leading importing countries, such as the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom, show a high demand for this refreshing fruit. Understanding the dynamics of this trade can provide insights into consumer preferences and economic conditions in different regions worldwide.