Global Onion Export Data 2025: Onion Exports by Country & Top Onion Exporters

In the world of agriculture and international trade, onions are a crucial commodity that plays a significant role in various cuisines worldwide. With the rise in demand for onions globally, it is essential to analyze the onion export data for 2025 to understand the trends and patterns of onion exports by country and identify the top onion exporters. According to the global trade data and onion export data, the total value of onion exports reached $5 billion in 2024 globally, a slight decline of 2% from the previous year.

As per the onion trade data, in the first quarter of 2025 (Q1), 472 thousand metric tons of onions were exported worldwide. Compared to Q1 2024, when 408 thousand metric tons were exported, this indicates a 15.5% increase. In this article, we will delve into the onion exports by country and highlight the top onion exporters in the world, with a key focus on the global onion export data for 2024-25.

Importance of Onion Exports & Onion Export by Region

Onions are a staple ingredient in many dishes and cuisines worldwide. They are rich in flavor and nutrients, making them a popular choice among consumers. Due to their versatility and long shelf life, onions have a high demand in both fresh and processed forms. Onion exports contribute significantly to the economy of several countries, generating revenue, creating job opportunities, and fostering international trade relations. Acquiring the onion export data helps in monitoring market trends, identifying potential growth opportunities, and improving strategic decision-making in the agricultural sector.

The Netherlands, China, Mexico, India, and the USA are the top five exporters of onions. Nearly three-fifths (57.1%) of all onions shipped in 2024 were sold by that group of significant exporters. A comparatively limited subset of onion exporters is suggested by that percentage. In 2024, European suppliers sold the most onions of any continent, with shipments totaling $1.74 billion, or nearly two-fifths (34.7%) of the world's total. Second-place exporters from Asia came in at 34.3%, while North America accounted for 17.8% of global onion shipments. Africa (5.5%), Latin America (5.2%), which includes the Caribbean but excludes Mexico, and Oceania (2.5%), which includes onions exported from Australia and New Zealand, had the lowest percentages of sellers.

Onion Exports by Country: Which are the Top 10 Onion Exporting Countries

The top 10 onion-exporting countries play a significant role in the global market, contributing to the worldwide trade of this versatile vegetable. These countries, including the Netherlands, Mexico, and China, excel in onion production and have established themselves as key players in the onion export industry. The major onion exporters or the leading onion-exporting countries in 2024-25, as per the onion shipment data and onion exports by country, include:

1. Netherlands: $1 billion (20.6%)

The Netherlands takes the top spot as the largest onion exporting country, with onion exports amounting to a staggering $1 billion, accounting for 20.6% of total onion exports globally, as per the Netherlands onion export data. The country's favorable climate and advanced agricultural practices contribute to its high production and export of onions.

2. China: $578 million (11.5%)

China follows closely behind the Netherlands as the second-largest onion exporting country, with onion exports reaching $578 million, making up 11.5% of the global onion export market. China's vast agricultural land and large-scale production capabilities make it a significant player in the onion export industry.

3. Mexico: $430.3 million (8.6%)

Mexico secures the third position in the list of top onion exporting countries, with onion exports amounting to $430.3 million, representing 8.6% of the total onion exports worldwide. Mexico's proximity to the United States and its favorable trade agreements contribute to its success in the onion export market.

4. India: $422.6 million (8.4%)

India holds the fourth position in onion exports by country, with exports totaling $422.6 million, accounting for 8.4% of the global onion export market. India's diverse agro-climatic conditions and large-scale onion production make it a key player in the onion export industry.

5. United States: $396.5 million (7.9%)

The United States ranks fifth in the list of top onion exporting countries, with onion exports reaching $396.5 million, representing 7.9% of the total onion exports globally, as per the onion export data of USA. The United States' advanced agricultural technologies and infrastructure contribute to its significant presence in the onion export market, as per the National Onion Association.

6. Pakistan: $219.5 million (4.4%)

This country secures the sixth position in onion exports by country, with exports amounting to $219.5 million, making up 4.4% of the global onion export market. It's strategic location and favorable climate conditions support its onion production and export capabilities.

7. Spain: $190.6 million (3.8%)

Spain holds the seventh position in the list of top onion exporting countries, with onion exports totaling $190.6 million, accounting for 3.8% of the total onion exports worldwide, as per Spain onion export data by HS code. Spain's modern agricultural practices and efficient supply chain contribute to its success in the onion export industry.  

8. Egypt: $160.9 million (3.2%)

Egypt secures the eighth position in onion exports by country, with exports reaching $160.9 million, representing 3.2% of the global onion export market. Egypt's rich agricultural heritage and favorable growing conditions make it a significant player in the onion export industry.

9. Poland: $133.1 million (2.7%)

Poland ranks ninth in the list of top onion exporting countries, with onion exports amounting to $133.1 million, making up 2.7% of the total onion exports globally. Poland's modernized farming techniques and emphasis on quality control contribute to its success in the onion export market.

10. Peru: $127.2 million (2.5%)

Peru holds the tenth position in onion exports by country, with exports totaling $127.2 million, accounting for 2.5% of the global onion export market. Peru's diverse agro-climatic conditions and focus on sustainable farming practices support its onion production and export capabilities.

Insights

• The Netherlands led the market with over one‑fifth of the global onion export value, as per the Netherlands export data.

• China and Mexico followed, making up nearly 20% of the export share combined.

• India, despite being a key global producer, placed 4th by export value in 2024.

• Together, these ten countries accounted for around 70% of the world’s onion exports (sum of shares roughly 72.6%).

List of Top Onion Exporters & Suppliers: Global Onion Exporters Data

The list of Top Onion Exporters & Suppliers, known as Global Onion Exporters Data, provides crucial insights into the leading players shaping the onion export market. This comprehensive list showcases the key exporters and suppliers influencing global onion trade dynamics. The top 10 onion export companies in 2024-25, as per the onion exporters data and onion suppliers list, include:  

1. BZ Group

• Origin: Netherlands

• Approx. 2024 export value: $100 million

• Top varieties: conventional brown/yellow onions, specialty varieties

• Key markets: Europe (Germany, UK, Scandinavia), Middle East & Asia

2. Van der Lans & Van der Lans 

• Origin: Netherlands

• Approx. Export value: $80 million 

• Varieties: Organic yellow onions

• Markets: US, Canada

3. Dutch Onions BV 

• Origin: Netherlands

• Approx. Export value: $70 million 

• Varieties: High‑quality retail-sized onions

• Markets: Europe, Middle East, Asia

4. De Groot International 

• Origin: Netherlands

• Approx. Export value: $60 million

• Varieties: Conventional and specialty onions

• Markets: Europe, global foodservice

5. Agrifirm Exlan

• Origin: Netherlands

• Approx. Export value: $50 million

• Varieties: Foodservice-grade onions

• Markets: Europe

6. Wiskerke Onions

• Origin: Netherlands

• Approx. Export value: $40 million

• Varieties: Premium onions

• Markets: Asia, Middle East

7. Monie Nieuwdorp BV

• Origin: Netherlands

• Approx. Export value: $30 million 

• Varieties: Organic onions 

• Markets: European retail

8. Keelings Retail

• Origin: Netherlands

• Approx. Export value: $20 million

• Varieties: Fresh retail onions

• Markets: UK, Ireland

9. Stet Holland

• Origin: Netherlands

• Approx. Export value: $15 million 

• Varieties: Specialty foodservice onions

• Markets: European professional kitchens

10. J.C. Groenewegen & Zn BV

• Origin: Netherlands

• Approx. Export value: $10 million

• Varieties: Conventional & organic onions

• Markets: Europe and global markets

Global Onion Exports in the Last 10 Years: Historical Onion Export Data

Global Onion Exports: 2024 at a Glance

• In 2024, global dry onion exports totaled approximately 9.5 million metric tons, down 5.7% from 2023’s high of around 10 million tons. 

• The export value stood at approximately $5.1 billion, marking a slight decline from $5.3 billion in 2023.

• Over the past decade, export volume grew modestly, with a CAGR of 1.5%, while average export prices rose by about +3.5% annually.

• In the global onion trade, 2024 brought more modest growth compared to the boom seen in 2023. 

• India, which led the world with approximately 2.52 million metric tons in FY 2023–24 (April 2023 to March 2024), managed exports of around 1.71 million tons; this decline stemmed mainly from a steep export ban imposed in December 2023 to tame surging domestic prices.

• Uzbekistan showed the highest shipment growth: volume CAGR +45–53%, value CAGR 55% in recent years.

Onion Export Price Trends & Export Rates

• Global average export price in 2024: $525–534 per ton, largely flat year-over-year. 

• Highest unit prices: United States ($1,005/t); lowest: Iran ($138–141/t). 

• Netherlands saw price growth rates of +7.9% annually. 

Regional Onion Export Snapshots

Middle East & North America Region

• In 2024, MENA (Middle East & North Africa) exported 725 Kt of dry onions, up 28% from 2023. 

• Total export value $332 M, down 20% in unit price (to $458/t) versus 2023. 

• Top exporters: Iran (303 Kt, 70% share), Egypt (202 Kt), Turkey (95 Kt), Yemen (74 Kt).

• Price variation: Morocco highest ($1,041/t), Iran lowest ($141/t). 

GCC Countries

• Exports totaling only 13 Kt in 2024 (–13.2% YoY); value $8.5 M. 

• UAE dominated exports (12 Kt, 93%); Kuwait 308 t at $793/t (highest price among GCC exporters); average price $642/ton. 

European Union

• EU exported 2.5 M t in 2024 (+3.6% YoY) valued at $1.6 billion, down from $2.1 billion in 2023.

India: Onion Export Policy Turbulence & 2024‑25 Highlights

• As the world’s largest onion exporter in 2023, India shipped 2.5 million metric tons in FY2023‑24 (ending March 31, 2024), with 671,125 tons destined for Bangladesh alone. 

• In December 2023, India imposed a complete export ban amid rising domestic prices.

• In May 2024, it lifted the ban but introduced:

• 40% export duty,

• Minimum export price (MEP) of $550/ton (₹46/kg)

• Resulting effective floor $770 ton (₹64/kg).

• The MEP and duty caused a >50% drop in exports in June 2024, with total exports during April–July 2024 at 260 Kt compared to 1.717 million tons in FY2023‑24. 

• By September 2024, the minimum export condition was removed, though duties and quotas remained for select zones like Gujarat. 

• As of April 2025, exports remained controlled: duties of 30–40%, quotas, and special approvals still applied; a complete ban was not reinstated. 

Early 2025 Onion Export Trends

• Dutch onion exports in Q1 2025 exceeded 1.3 million tons, up 5% YoY. Their first six weeks were the third‑best seasonal export in two decades. 

• Key buyers were the UK (136,962 tons), Mauritania, Israel, and Guinea, among 82 countries purchasing Dutch onions in early 2025. 

• In Mexico, Q1 onion production grew 22%, causing a sharp 71% YoY drop in price to $0.31/kg. 

• Egypt maintained stable prices ($0.12/kg) with a harvest matching last year (3 Mt) and rising export interest. 

• Spanish onion production dropped 4.3% YoY; prices rose 15% weekly in W14 due to the tight domestic supply.

Key Takeaways for 2024–25

1. Global onion trade dipped in 2024 after record highs in 2023.

2. Top exporters remained the Netherlands, China, and India, though India’s export value shrank significantly due to policy shifts.

3. Uzbekistan emerged as a rapid-growth market in both volume and value.

4. Price disparities across major exporters are wide: high in the U.S. & Morocco; extremely low in Iran.

5. India remains pivotal, but domestic policy volatility severely impacts global supply and pricing.

6. Early 2025 signals a steady recovery in EU exports and shifting price dynamics in Mexico, Egypt, and Spain.

What to Watch: Outlook & Implications

• Indian policies will continue shaping global supply. Any further duty adjustments or export curbs may ripple across markets.

• Uzbekistan and emerging suppliers may capture a growing market share if momentum continues.

• Climate and crop conditions in Europe and North America could influence price and output volatility this year.

• Importers in Asia, previously dependent on Indian onions, may pivot more decisively to alternate sources like China, Egypt, or Turkey, as per the Asia trade data.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The global onion export data for 2025 highlights the significance of onions as a valuable agricultural commodity in international trade. By analyzing onion exports by country and identifying the top onion exporters, we can gain a better understanding of the market dynamics and opportunities in the onion export industry. As demand for onions continues to rise globally, onion exporters must adapt to changing consumer preferences, quality standards, and trade regulations to maintain their competitive edge in the market.

Global onion exports in 2024–25 reflect shifting tides: a mild contraction overall, consolidation of top suppliers, and the rising influence of new players. As 2025 unfolds, attention will shift to how supply chains adapt, particularly in regions sensitive to onion shortages and price changes.

We hope that you liked our interactive & data-driven blog report on the global onion export data 2025. For more such insights into the global trade trends or to search live onion export data by country, visit TradeImeX. Contact us at info@tradeimex.in to get an exclusive and customized database report along with a verified list of the top onion exporters globally.