Largest Exporter of Apples: Italy is the largest exporter of apples in the world, exporting apples valued at close to US $995 million in 2023, about 14.8% of world apple export volume. Italian apples are particularly well received in countries like Germany, Spain, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. Italy exported almost 860,000 tonnes of apples on an annual basis. Italy's main apple-producing regions are in the fertile Alpine valleys (especially South Tyrol and Trentino). The three most popular apples exported from Italy are Gala, Fuji, and Pink Lady. Keep reading for more details.
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Which Country is the Largest Exporter of Apples in the World?
Italy ranks as the world's leading apple exporter by value and volume. Italy is known for its products that offer high-quality apples with excellent shelf life and taste. Apples from Italy are grown under strict EU quality assurance guidelines, and this is accepted in many markets as a guarantee that quality, safety and the environment meet consumer requirements. South Tyrol produces almost half of Italy's apple production and has one of the most advanced cold storage and packaging systems in Europe.
How Many Apples is Italy Exporting?
Italy exported almost 860,000 tonnes of apples during 2023 which was valued at about US $995 million. Italy is the leading apple-exporting country, ahead of the many strong competitors like the US and China.
Top 5 Apple Exporting Countries in the World
| Rank | Country | Annual Export Value (in USD Million) |
| 1 | Italy | 995 |
| 2 | China | 970 |
| 3 | United States | 931 |
| 4 | New Zealand | 532 |
| 5 | Chile | 446 |
Note: Data sourced from WorldPopulationReview.com (2024 figures)
1. Italy
Italy is the biggest exporter of apples in the world. The apples are grown in the northern mountains, whose cold climate and modern growing practices yield crisp, delicious apples. Italian apples are recognised for their immense sweetness, quality of texture, and longevity.
2. China
China is the second biggest exporter of apples, with a value of about US $970 million in apples in 2023. China is the top producer of apples, most of which are consumed domestically. Nevertheless, it is growing rapidly in exports to countries in Asia, especially Vietnam, Indonesia and Bangladesh. Chinese apples, such as Fuji, are gaining popularity for their bright red colour and juicy flesh.
3. United States
The U.S. is third, exporting apples valued at about US $931 million, led by Washington, New York, and Michigan. U.S. apples are shipped mainly to Mexico, Canada, and East Asia and the most popular apple varieties exported are Red Delicious, Gala, and Granny Smith.
4. New Zealand
During the Northern Hemisphere's apple off-season New Zealand exports a lot of apples. NZ exported about US $532 million of apples in 2023. New Zealand's apple industry is aimed at premium varieties such as Jazz, Envy, and Braeburn.
5. Chile
Chile is the fifth-largest exporter, with US $446 million in apple exports. Its main markets are Latin America, the U.S., and Europe. Chilean apples are grown in central regions like Maule and O’Higgins. Royal Gala and Fuji are the top exported varieties. Chile benefits from being a Southern Hemisphere grower, supplying apples when others cannot.
Which Other Countries Export Apples?
Other notable apple exporters include Poland, South Africa, France, and Serbia. These countries export smaller quantities but still play an important role in supplying seasonal apples to global markets. For example, Poland is the largest apple exporter in Eastern Europe.
Interesting facts about apples:
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Thousands of Varieties: Apples are grown in more than 7,500 different varieties around the world, exhibiting a remarkable range of flavours, textures, and looks.
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Float Due to Air: Apples are unique among fruits in that they float in water because air makes up around 25% of their volume.
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Rose Family Relatives: Apples are botanical cousins to roses, pears, and strawberries because they belong to the rose family (Rosaceae).
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Ancient History: Apples have been grown by humans for thousands of years, having originated in the Tien Shan mountains of Central Asia.
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Ethylene for Ripening: A natural plant hormone that encourages ripening, ethylene gas is released by apples. For this reason, a ripe apple can ripen more quickly when placed with other fruits.
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