Fruit Exports. What Fruits Does Poland Export?

What fruits are currently Poland's main export products on international markets?

Poland is one of the leading fruit producers in Europe, and fruit exports play a significant role in the country’s foreign trade. The nation’s favorable climate and soil conditions support the production of a diverse range of fruits, meeting the needs of both domestic and foreign markets. Polish fruit exports primarily include apples, strawberries, sour cherries, raspberries, black currants, and blueberries. Each of these fruits finds buyers in various international markets, both within the European Union and beyond. When analyzing Polish fruit exports, it is essential to consider the specifics of each target market, key trends, as well as the challenges and opportunities facing Polish exporters.

Poland is one of the largest apple producers in Europe, with apples representing a substantial share of its fruit exports. Annual apple production amounts to around 3 million tons, allowing Poland to maintain a stable position in the global market. In 2023, apple exports reached over 1 million tons, an increase of about 8% compared to the previous year. The export value of apples in 2023 was estimated at around 500 million PLN. The main markets for Polish apples include European Union countries, especially Germany, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, and the United Kingdom. Additionally, Poland is actively expanding its apple exports to Asian countries, including India and China, where demand for fruit products is growing. It is worth noting that Poland exports both fresh apples and processed apples in the form of juices, concentrates, and purées. Data from the first half of 2024 indicates that apple exports remain strong, with Polish companies planning further expansion into Asian and Middle Eastern markets to increase geographical diversification.

Strawberries are the second most significant fruit export from Poland. Poland is one of the EU’s leaders in strawberry production, with a significant portion of the harvest allocated for export. Strawberries are exported primarily fresh and frozen. In 2023, fresh strawberry exports reached about 50,000 tons, with a value estimated at 180 million PLN. Key markets for Polish strawberries include Germany, France, Belgium, and Sweden. High-quality frozen strawberries are also exported to more distant markets such as Canada, Japan, and South Korea. Frozen strawberry exports are popular due to the extended shelf life of the product and the ability to tailor offerings to the needs of the processing industry. In 2024, strawberry exports are expected to grow by around 10% due to increased demand for this product in Asian countries.

Raspberries are another important fruit export for Poland, which is one of the largest raspberry producers in Europe. In 2023, Poland’s raspberry exports totaled around 40,000 tons, with the majority being frozen raspberries, which account for approximately 85% of total exports. The value of frozen raspberry exports is estimated at around 300 million PLN. Poland exports raspberries mainly to European countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy. It is worth noting that consumers' growing awareness of the health benefits of raspberries contributes to increased demand for these fruits in Europe and other continents. Frozen raspberries are especially popular in the food industry, where they are used to produce yogurts, desserts, and juices. In 2024, Polish producers plan to intensify export efforts in the Asian market, where there is growing interest in fruit products high in antioxidants.

Poland is also one of the main sour cherry producers in Europe. In 2023, sour cherry exports totaled around 30,000 tons, with most consisting of frozen cherries. The export value of sour cherries in 2023 was estimated at around 200 million PLN. Cherries are exported mainly to EU countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, and Austria. Italy is also a key market for Polish cherries, where they are used primarily in the processing industry for the production of juices, jams, and desserts. Polish cherries are valued for their intense flavor and high quality, which contributes to their popularity in foreign markets. In recent years, Polish cherry producers have focused on increasing exports to non-European countries, such as the USA and Canada, where there is growing interest in fruits with a distinct flavor and natural health benefits.

Poland is also a leader in the production and export of black currants. Polish black currant harvests are among the largest in Europe, and Polish black currants are exported to markets around the world. In 2023, black currant exports reached about 20,000 tons, with the majority being frozen currants. Major markets for Polish black currants include Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Scandinavian countries. The export value of black currants in 2023 was estimated at around 150 million PLN. These fruits are mainly used in the food industry as an ingredient in juices, jams, jellies, and dietary supplements. Growing interest in black currants as a product high in vitamins and antioxidants allows Polish producers to expand further into foreign markets.

In recent years, Poland has also become a significant exporter of blueberries. In 2023, blueberry exports totaled around 15,000 tons, representing a 20% increase compared to 2022. The main export markets for Polish blueberries are Germany, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands, although Polish blueberries are also gaining popularity in Asian markets, particularly in China and South Korea. The export value of blueberries in 2023 is estimated at around 250 million PLN. Blueberries are valued for their health benefits, especially their high vitamin and antioxidant content, which contributes to the growing demand for these fruits. In 2024, Polish producers plan further promotional and logistical efforts to increase the presence of blueberries in non-European markets, particularly in Asia.

It is worth noting that a key factor influencing the development of Polish fruit exports is the availability of logistical infrastructure and support from government and industry organizations. Platforms such as Poland-Export.com and other initiatives aim to promote Polish agricultural products in international markets and facilitate Polish producers in establishing connections with foreign partners. Fruit exporters from Poland can rely on support in transportation and logistics, especially for delicate fruits that require specialized refrigeration solutions.

The Polish fruit industry faces challenges related to sanitary and phytosanitary requirements in various markets, necessitating strict adherence to quality and hygiene standards. By implementing modern technologies for cultivation, processing, and storage of fruits, Poland has the opportunity to further grow its exports.