Spain has witnessed notable growth in its fresh fruit and vegetable imports, with volume increasing by 6 percent and value rising by 16 percent during the first four months of this year compared to the same period in 2023.
Data compiled by Fepex from the Department of Customs and Special Taxes of the Tax Agency reveals that import volumes reached 1.5 million tonnes, amounting to €1.8 billion in value. Fepex notes that this trend reflects the sustained upward trajectory observed in recent years.
Specifically, vegetable imports from January to April 2024 totaled 840,842 tonnes, marking a 9 percent increase year-on-year, with their value climbing by 17 percent to €641.9 million. Potatoes accounted for a significant portion, comprising 65 percent of the imported vegetable volumes and 41 percent of the total value, amounting to 548,000 tonnes and €264 million respectively.
In the fruit segment, imports totaled 730,265 tonnes, reflecting a 3.6 percent increase over the same period last year, valued at €1.16 billion, a 15 percent rise. Bananas topped the list as the most imported fruit category, followed by apples, avocados, oranges, and pineapples.
Fepex emphasized that the data underscores the dynamic nature of Spain’s import market, particularly in fruits and vegetables, with notable growth observed in products that traditionally have strong ties to Spanish production.