EU agri-food exports hit record €235.4 billion in 2024

The European Union's agri-food exports reached a record value of €235.4 billion in 2024, according to the latest agri-food trade report released by the European Commission. This marks a 3 percent year-on-year increase, equal to €6.6 billion, despite ongoing global trade disruptions and economic uncertainty.

The United Kingdom remained the EU's top export market in 2024, accounting for 23 percent of total exports, or €53.9 billion. Other notable growth destinations included Switzerland and Japan, with EU exports to both countries rising by 6 percent. Exports to Switzerland increased by €653 million, and those to Japan rose by €458 million.

In terms of volume, cereal preparations, dairy products, and wine were the leading agri-food exports from the EU. However, the highest increases in export value came from olives and cocoa-based products, mainly driven by price hikes across global markets.

Agri-food imports into the EU also rose significantly in 2024, reaching €171.8 billion, up 8 percent or €12.4 billion compared to the previous year. The United Kingdom, Ukraine, and Brazil remained the EU's largest suppliers of imported agri-food products.

Cocoa and coffee were the most valuable imported commodities, reflecting sustained increases in global market prices. These were followed by imports of fruit, nuts, and oilseeds and protein crops, which also contributed significantly to the total import value.