Spanish exports find markets outside EU

2017 saw a 1% rise in the value of Spain’s fresh produce exports to non-EU countries to €538 million, according to Customs and Excise data. These export accounted for 4.7% of the country’s total exports of fresh produce.

While Brazil remained the main destination (€88.6m), Spanish exports to this market actually took a drop of 15% from the previous year. Elsewhere, the US imported €58 million of Spanish fruit and vegetables (+7%), Canada €57 million (+17%) and the UAE €56 million (-6%). Africa’s leading importer was Morocco, with €56.4 million (+24%). Meanwhile, China imported 49% more Spanish fruit and vegetables in 2017 (€21.6m). Spain’s fresh produce exporters’ association Fepex said the country’s search for new markets is a difficult and long-term challenge.