Introduction
Edible snails, also known as escargot, are a delicacy enjoyed in many countries around the world. The global market for edible snails is steadily growing, with certain countries emerging as key players in both exporting and importing these delectable creatures. In this report, we will analyze the top edible snail exporting and importing countries and explore who controls the market.
Top Edible Snail Exporting Countries
When it comes to exporting edible snails, several countries stand out for their significant market share. According to the latest data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the top edible snail exporting countries include:
1. France
France is the largest exporter of edible snails in the world. The country’s favorable climate and traditional snail farming practices have made it a key player in the global market. In 2020, France exported over 3,000 tonnes of edible snails, mainly to European countries such as Italy, Spain, and Germany.
2. Greece
Greece is another major player in the edible snail export market. The country’s Mediterranean climate is ideal for snail farming, and Greek snails are highly sought after for their quality and taste. In 2020, Greece exported around 2,500 tonnes of edible snails, primarily to countries in Europe and Asia.
3. Italy
Italy is also a significant exporter of edible snails, particularly to other European countries. In 2020, Italy shipped approximately 1,500 tonnes of snails to markets in France, Spain, and Germany. Italian snails are known for their premium quality and are in high demand among gourmet chefs.
Top Edible Snail Importing Countries
While some countries dominate the export market, others rely on imports to meet the demand for edible snails. The top edible snail importing countries include:
1. United States
The United States is the largest importer of edible snails in the world. The country’s growing appetite for exotic foods has led to an increase in snail imports in recent years. In 2020, the US imported over 4,000 tonnes of edible snails, primarily from France, Greece, and Italy.
2. Japan
Japan is another significant importer of edible snails, with a preference for high-quality snails from European countries. In 2020, Japan imported around 3,000 tonnes of snails, mainly from France and Greece. Japanese consumers value escargot as a gourmet delicacy.
3. China
China’s growing middle class has fueled demand for luxury foods like edible snails. As a result, China has become a key player in the global snail import market. In 2020, China imported over 2,500 tonnes of snails, primarily from France, Greece, and Italy.
Who Controls the Market?
When it comes to controlling the global edible snail market, France emerges as the clear leader. The country’s long history of snail farming, coupled with its high-quality products, gives France a competitive edge in both exporting and importing snails. French snails are considered a gourmet delicacy and are in high demand worldwide.
While France dominates the export market, the United States holds significant influence as the largest importer of edible snails. The US market’s demand for escargot drives imports from key exporting countries such as France, Greece, and Italy. Other countries like Japan and China also play a vital role in shaping the global snail market.
Conclusion
The global edible snail market is a dynamic and growing industry, with key players in both exporting and importing countries. France, Greece, and Italy lead the way in exporting high-quality snails to markets around the world, while the United States, Japan, and China drive demand through their imports. Understanding the market dynamics and key players is essential for businesses looking to enter or expand within the edible snail industry.
