Hungary in the TOP 10 list of European fresh vegetable exporters

By: Trademagazin Date: 2025. 10. 03. 11:10

🎧 Hallgasd a cikket: Nyelv: Sebesség: 1.05×

In the middle of summer, fresh vegetables are particularly popular – not only on Hungarian tables, but also in the shopping baskets of foreign consumers. Hungary ranks 10th among European vegetable exporters, achieving outstanding results in three categories: 7th in the case of lettuce and chicory, and 9th in the category of carrots, cucumbers and pickles. In 2024, the total value of the country’s vegetable exports was 412.4 million euros, with Germany still the largest market. Growth was observed everywhere among the top five trading partners, with a particularly notable 250% (year-on-year) jump in cucumber sales to Slovakia.

According to data from the International Trade Center (ITC), the value of Hungarian fresh vegetable exports in 2024 was EUR 412.4 million, representing an annual growth of 17%. This result allowed the country to maintain its 10th place in Europe. The largest number of vegetables went to Germany (EUR 55.1 million, +8% annual growth), followed by Slovakia (EUR 43.4 million, +19%), and Romania (EUR 40.6 million, +12%). Akcenta experts emphasize that Hungary also has high export performance in three key vegetable categories: it ranks 7th in Europe for lettuce and chicory, and 9th in Europe for carrots and cucumbers.

– Hungarian agriculture is increasingly struggling with the consequences of climate change. Droughts and uneven rainfall distribution directly affect the quantity and quality of fresh vegetables waiting for export. Lower yields mean higher unit production costs, which worsens exporters’ margins. Unstable weather makes it difficult to fulfill long-term contracts, and fluctuating supply can lead to contract breach penalties, price renegotiations or market losses. More and more companies are investing in climate-resilient technologies, such as advanced drip irrigation systems or greenhouses with controlled microclimates. Although these increase the security of production, they entail high investment costs, which in the short term reduce the profitability of exports. Mitigating currency risk can also help maintain financial stability and profitability, enabling the conscious planning and execution of international trade transactions.

– says Kusala Eduard, Commercial Director of Akcenta’s Hungarian office. And he adds, that he is very satisfied with the growing export results, which show the recognition of Hungarian vegetables on European tables. This proves that despite the climate challenges, consumers are increasingly choosing these products, appreciating their quality and taste.

Carrots and other root vegetables

Due to their earthy aromas and versatility in the kitchen, Hungarian carrots, turnips, beets, celery and radishes are gaining increasing recognition abroad. In 2024, their sales brought in 32.3 million euros, which is an annual increase of 34% (24.2 million euros in 2023). This result ranks Hungary in 9th place in Europe. Most of these vegetables went to Romania (8.9 million euros, +24%), Germany (14.2 million euros, +54%) and Poland (7.5 million euros, +39%).

Lettuce and chicory

Crispy lettuce leaves and chicory grown on Hungarian lands are increasingly popular. In 2024, their exports reached 16.8 million euros, which is 43% more than a year earlier. This secured Hungary 7th place in Europe in this category. Romania remains an important target market (5.2 million euros, -10%), but the pace of the rapidly growing Czech and Slovak markets exceeds: +80% (4.8 million euros) and +124% (4.2 million euros) respectively. These data are evidence of successful sales direction diversification.