Strawberry season begins in late spring and continues through summer, with harvest likely starting as early as March in warmer climates and continuing through August in cooler areas. For most of the country, June is considered prime time for strawberries. You may also find them at some farmers markets in the fall, thanks to perennially hardy varieties that produce until almost the first frost. Consider yourself lucky if you do.
The global strawberry market has been seeing significant growth over the past few years, driven by a significant increase in consumer demand for fresh and healthy produce. As we look toward 2025, several countries are poised to play a significant role in strawberry imports. This report focuses on the top 10 strawberry importing countries by 2025, detailing specific data, revenue, and volume associated with these imports.
Market Overview
Strawberries are one of the most popular berries consumed worldwide, valued for their sweetness, nutritional benefits, and culinary uses. In 2025, the global strawberry market is expected to reach approximately $18 billion, with imports accounting for a significant portion. In 2022, the total volume of strawberry imports worldwide was approximately 1.2 million metric tons, which is expected to increase to 1.5 million metric tons by 2025.
Several factors play a key role in driving strawberry imports, including:
1. Consumer preferences:Consumer demand for strawberries is increasing, as strawberries are one of the healthiest fresh fruits.
2. Off-season availability: When local production is not possible, cold-weather countries can benefit from importing strawberries during the off-season.
3. Global trade agreements: With the help of favorable trade agreements, it has now become easier for countries to import strawberries, reduce tariffs, and increase market access.
Top 10 Strawberry Importing Countries in 2025
1. United States
The United States will remain the largest importer of strawberries in 2025. The US market is worth approximately $8 billion, well ahead of consumer demand for fresh strawberries year-round. The country imports strawberries primarily from Mexico, which supplies over 90% of the fresh strawberries consumed in the US during the winter months. In the 2025 United States market, the strawberry industry is expected to experience continued growth, with the market size increasing from $15.88 billion to $1 billion in 2024, reflecting a CAGR of approximately $1 billion.
2. Germany
Germany is the second largest importer with an expected import volume of 250,000 metric tons by 2025. The German strawberry market is estimated to be worth approximately $2.5 billion. The primary sources of strawberries for Germany include Spain and the Netherlands. For the German market, the strawberry season is expected to start early in 2025, with local strawberries available from safe cultivation before Easter, and large quantities expected from mid-April. Demand for regional strawberries is also increasing.
3. United Kingdom
The UK is forecast to import around 200,000 metric tons of strawberries in 2025, with a market value of around $1.8 billion. The UK is heavily dependent on imports from Spain and the Netherlands, especially during the off-season. The popularity of strawberries in desserts and snacks contributes to this high import volume. In 2025, the UK strawberry market faces challenges such as rising energy costs and rising wages.
4. Canada
Canada is expected to import 150,000 metric tons of strawberries by 2025, with a market value of around $1.2 billion. The country sources its strawberries primarily from the United States, especially during the summer months. Demand for fresh strawberries in Canada is growing due to the growing trend of healthy eating. The Canadian strawberry market is expected to continue to grow through 2025, driven by increasing consumer demand for fresh produce and healthier choices, with the market benefiting from year-round availability through modern agricultural practices and imports, particularly from the United States.
5. France
France imported approximately 120,000 metric tons of strawberries in 2025, with a market value of approximately $1 billion. The main sources of French strawberry imports are Spain and Morocco. The French market is known for its diverse culinary uses of strawberries, which is driving demand. In 2025, the French strawberry market is expected to focus on taste and quality, with French varieties such as Garrigat and Marais des Bois being preferred over those focused on export strength. French strawberry production is concentrated in the southwest, particularly around Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne.
6. Japan
Japan’s strawberry imports are expected to reach 100,000 metric tons by 2025, worth about $900 million. Japan mainly imports strawberries from the United States and South Korea. The growing trend of Western-style desserts in Japan has increased the demand for strawberries. In 2025, the strawberry season in Japan peaks from January to March, the strawberry season is from November to May, and there are events such as the Yokohama Strawberry Festival and the famous fruit show and strawberry festival at Tokyo Skytree Town.
7. Netherlands
The Netherlands, a major player in the European strawberry market, is expected to import about 90,000 metric tons by 2025, with a market value of about $800 million. The country serves as a major distribution hub for strawberries in Europe, with both local production and imports from Spain and Morocco.
8. Australia
Australia will import about 70,000 metric tons of strawberries by 2025, with an estimated market value of $600 million. The United States and New Zealand are the key suppliers, driven by the growing demand for healthy foods.
9. Italy
Italy’s strawberry imports are expected to reach 50,000 metric tons by 2025, with a market value of about $450 million. The country mainly imports strawberries from Spain and Greece. Strawberries are often included in various dishes in Italian cuisine, which plays a significant role in their popularity. In 2025, the Italian strawberry market is experiencing a good start, with prices slightly higher than last year, especially for the Sabrosa-Candonga variety, and deliveries to major markets such as Pescara, Milan, Bresca, Rome.
10. South Korea
South Korea is forecast to import about 40,000 metric tons of strawberries by 2025, with a market value of about $350 million. The US and Japan are the main sources of strawberry imports in South Korea. The growing popularity of strawberries in desserts and snacks is driving demand in the country.
Conclusion
The strawberry import market is set to expand significantly by 2025, with the top 10 importing countries playing a significant role in meeting global demand. The US, Germany, and the UK are expected to lead in import volumes, driven by consumer preferences and seasonal demand. As countries adapt to changing consumer behaviors and preferences, the global strawberry market is likely to continue to grow. Understanding these dynamics will be essential for stakeholders in the agricultural and food industries.
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