Largest Producer of Garlic: China is the world’s largest producer of garlic, growing more than 20 million tonnes annually. With its ideal climate, vast agricultural land, and efficient farming systems, China supplies more than 70% of the global garlic market. Garlic farming plays a significant role in rural economies, especially in provinces like Shandong and Henan.
Which Country is the Largest Producer of Garlic in the World?
China ranks first in global garlic production, yielding approximately 20,688,005 tonnes each year. Chinese garlic is widely exported and used around the world in homes, restaurants, food factories, and even pharmaceutical products.
How Much Garlic Does China Produce?
China produces about 20.7 million tonnes of garlic annually. The majority of this output comes from eastern provinces with fertile soil and well-developed irrigation. China is also home to Jinxiang County, known as the 'Garlic Capital of the World'.
Top 5 Garlic-Producing Countries in the World
| Rank | Country | Annual Production (in Tonnes) |
| 1 | China | 20,688,005 |
| 2 | India | 3,266,023 |
| 3 | Bangladesh | 548,907 |
| 4 | Egypt | 490,418 |
| 5 | South Korea | 318,220 |
Note: Figures are based on FAO 2023–2024 agricultural estimates.
1. China
China dominates the global garlic market, producing more than six times the amount grown by India. It exports garlic in multiple forms, fresh, dried, powdered, and pickled. The country’s garlic is used globally due to its strong aroma and long shelf life.
2. India
India is the second-largest producer, harvesting around 3.2 million tonnes annually. Garlic is cultivated across many Indian states, especially Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. It’s widely used in Indian cooking and Ayurveda for its medicinal properties.
3. Bangladesh
Bangladesh produces nearly 549,000 tonnes of garlic each year. Its garlic sector has grown steadily, with rising demand in both household cooking and local markets. Most cultivation is done on small farms using traditional techniques.
4. Egypt
Egypt ranks fourth with 490,418 tonnes of garlic produced annually. Egyptian garlic is valued for export due to its quality and disease resistance. Much of the garlic is grown in the fertile Nile Delta region.
5. South Korea
South Korea yields around 318,220 tonnes of garlic each year. Garlic is essential in Korean cuisine, used in dishes like kimchi, soups, and marinades. Per capita, South Koreans consume one of the highest amounts of garlic in the world.
Other Countries with Notable Garlic Production
Countries like Russia, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, and the United States also contribute meaningfully to global garlic output. Though their production is smaller, they cater to both local and export markets with regional varieties.
Interesting Facts About Garlic
1. Ancient Medicine and Magic
Garlic was used in ancient Egypt and Rome as both a food and a medicine. It was even worn around the neck to ward off evil spirits.
2. The Power of Allicin
When garlic is chopped or crushed, it releases allicin, a natural compound with powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties.
3. Garlic Can Be Purple
Not all garlic is white! Varieties like Purple Stripe and Rocambole are prized for their bold flavour and are often used in gourmet dishes.
4. Garlic Capital of the World
Jinxiang County in China grows and exports more garlic than any other region globally. It hosts international garlic expos and trade fairs.
5. Garlic in Space
Garlic has even made its way into space! It was one of the first spices tested on space missions due to its potential immune-boosting effects.
