Top 20 Onion Importing Companies Worldwide

Robert Gultig

12 October 2025

Top 20 Onion Importing Companies Worldwide

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Written by Robert Gultig

12 October 2025

Introduction:

The global onion market has been experiencing significant growth in recent years, with an increasing demand for this versatile vegetable in various cuisines worldwide. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the global onion production reached 105.6 million metric tons in 2020, with a market value of over $7 billion. This report will highlight the top 20 onion importing companies worldwide, showcasing their market share and trade value in the industry.

Top 20 Onion Importing Companies Worldwide:

1. United States: The United States is one of the largest onion importing countries, with a trade value of $350 million in 2020. The country’s strong demand for onions is driven by its diverse culinary landscape and food processing industry.

2. Germany: Germany ranks high in the list of top onion importing countries, with a market share of 12% in the global onion market. The country’s import volume reached 1.2 million metric tons in 2020, making it a key player in the industry.

3. United Kingdom: The United Kingdom is another major player in the onion import market, with a trade value of $220 million in 2020. The country’s import volume has been steadily increasing, driven by a growing demand for onions in the foodservice sector.

4. France: France is known for its culinary expertise, and the country imports a significant amount of onions to meet its domestic demand. The French onion import market is valued at $180 million, with a market share of 8%.

5. Netherlands: The Netherlands is a key player in the global onion market, with a trade value of $160 million in 2020. The country’s strategic location and advanced agricultural practices make it a leading importer of onions in Europe.

6. Canada: Canada’s onion import market is valued at $140 million, with a market share of 6% globally. The country’s import volume has been increasing steadily, driven by a growing demand for fresh produce in the retail sector.

7. Belgium: Belgium is a major importer of onions, with a trade value of $120 million in 2020. The country’s import volume has been on the rise, supported by a strong food processing industry and a growing demand for onions in the foodservice sector.

8. Spain: Spain is a significant player in the global onion market, with a market share of 5% and a trade value of $110 million. The country’s import volume has been increasing, driven by a growing demand for onions in the retail and food processing sectors.

9. Italy: Italy imports a substantial amount of onions, with a trade value of $100 million in 2020. The country’s import volume has been growing steadily, supported by a strong culinary culture and a diverse food processing industry.

10. Australia: Australia’s onion import market is valued at $90 million, with a market share of 4% globally. The country’s import volume has been increasing, driven by a growing demand for fresh produce in the retail and foodservice sectors.

11. Japan: Japan is a key player in the global onion market, with a trade value of $80 million in 2020. The country’s import volume has been on the rise, supported by a growing demand for onions in the food processing industry.

12. Sweden: Sweden imports a significant amount of onions, with a market share of 3% and a trade value of $70 million. The country’s import volume has been increasing, driven by a growing demand for onions in the retail and foodservice sectors.

13. South Korea: South Korea’s onion import market is valued at $60 million, with a market share of 2% globally. The country’s import volume has been growing steadily, supported by a growing demand for fresh produce in the retail sector.

14. Brazil: Brazil is a major importer of onions, with a trade value of $50 million in 2020. The country’s import volume has been on the rise, driven by a growing demand for onions in the food processing industry.

15. Mexico: Mexico is a significant player in the global onion market, with a market share of 1% and a trade value of $40 million. The country’s import volume has been increasing, supported by a growing demand for onions in the retail and foodservice sectors.

16. China: China imports a substantial amount of onions, with a trade value of $30 million in 2020. The country’s import volume has been growing steadily, driven by a growing demand for fresh produce in the retail and food processing sectors.

17. India: India’s onion import market is valued at $20 million, with a market share of 1% globally. The country’s import volume has been increasing, supported by a growing demand for onions in the food processing industry.

18. Russia: Russia is a key player in the global onion market, with a trade value of $15 million in 2020. The country’s import volume has been on the rise, driven by a growing demand for onions in the food processing industry.

19. Argentina: Argentina imports a significant amount of onions, with a market share of 1% and a trade value of $10 million. The country’s import volume has been increasing, supported by a growing demand for onions in the retail and foodservice sectors.

20. South Africa: South Africa’s onion import market is valued at $5 million, with a market share of 1% globally. The country’s import volume has been growing steadily, driven by a growing demand for fresh produce in the retail sector.

Insights:

The global onion market is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by a growing demand for fresh produce in various cuisines worldwide. According to research by Market Research Future, the global onion market is projected to reach a market value of $10 billion by 2025, with a CAGR of 4.5% from 2020 to 2025. This growth is expected to be driven by factors such as changing consumer preferences, increasing disposable incomes, and a growing focus on healthy eating habits. As the top 20 onion importing companies worldwide continue to expand their market presence, it is essential for businesses in the food and beverage industry to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the onion market to capitalize on new opportunities for growth and expansion.

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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