For the past few decades, fruit consumption and Fruit Imports to the E.U. have significantly increased. There is no denying that fruits are one
of life’s great pleasures and are highly in demand. In Europe, where many countries. they depend on importing large quantities of fruit to solve this problem. 
As a result, we started thinking about everything that goes on behind the scenes. that’s why we came up with five interesting facts about importing fruits to the E.U.

Which countries are the top importers of fruits in the E.U.?

As a fruit and vegetable wholesaler. we can share, while some fruits can be grown in various weather and soil conditions. many other exotic and specialty fruits need to be imported from other countries. With that in mind, here are the top E.U. countries that import fruit.

  • Netherlands: This is probably one of the most important trade hubs in Europe for fruits. often redirecting shipments from there to other European countries.
  • United Kingdom: It’s probably no surprise that the U.K is one of the top importers of fruit. In 2018 roughly 40% of the fruits imported to the U.K. came from developing countries making it the second main destination in the E.U.
  • Belgium: Like the Netherlands, Belgium is another central hub for importing fruits. Currently, Belgium is the main hub for importing bananas.
  • Germany: Another major importer of fruits is Germany. In 2018 the country imported roughly 9.2 million tons of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Which countries are the top exporters of fruits to the E.U.?

Although more than 70 countries export fruits to the E.U. around 45% of the total imports arrive from five countries. These countries include Morocco, Costa Rica, South Africa, Turkey and United States, which is the top exporter of the bunch. However, in the last few years, other countries have been emerging as new sources of importing fruits. These include Israel, China, Egypt and Kenya. Israel specifically has seen an increase in demand for citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons. the holy land’s oranges put up a good fight when it comes to fruits from Spain/

What are the requirements for importing fruits to the E.U.?

Due to the large volume of fruits imported into the E.U., many regulations have been implemented to ensure all fruits are of the highest standard and quality. there are many rules and regulations exporters need to abide by, the most important is regulating the use of pesticides. Any amount which exceeds the limit can’t be imported or sold across the E.U. Packaging and storage is another significant requirement that ensures only the freshest fruits are imported.

 

Which fruits are banned from import to the E.U.?

When it comes to banned fruits. it’s less about specific kinds of fruits and more about the countries which produce them. So while fruits like Indian mangoes, snake gourd and bitter gourd are banned from import in the E.U., it’s more about the conditions they are grown under, and the levels of chemicals that are being used.

Which are the most popular fruits imported to the E.U.?

There are many delicious fruits to choose from, but which ones top the list of the most popular fruits today? You may be surprised, but the top fruit imported to the E.U. are bananas. Other popular fruits include oranges, pineapples, grapes, avocados, mangoes, apples and peaches. In the last few years oranges have steadily been climbing the rankings.

Negev Produce’s Citrus Fruits and Avocados

Negev Produce has been growing and exporting citrus fruits and avocados to countries across the European Union for many years. Our vast knowledge and experience have helped create some of the most delicious and sought-after citrus fruits and avocados.

The next time you find yourself at your local fruits and vegetable wholesalers’ market or grocery store. you may be purchasing and enjoying one of Negev Produce’s delicious citrus fruits and avocados.