Explore the Global Seed Exporters Database: Top 10 Countries that Export Seeds

Seeds are the foundation of agriculture. They determine crop yields, food security, and the competitiveness of entire agricultural systems. In the modern economy, seeds are not just biological inputs; they are high-value intellectual property and a driver of international trade worth billions of dollars annually. According to the global trade data and seed export data, the total value of seed exports reached a record-high $9.43 billion in 2024, a 5% increase from the previous year. The Netherlands and the USA are the leading countries that export seeds, according to global export seeds data. In 2025, global seed exports continue to play a crucial role in the agricultural industry, with several countries leading the way in seed production and export.  

In 2024-25, global seed exports reflect both traditional dominance by established powers like the United States, France, and the Netherlands, and the rapid ascent of new leaders such as India and Ukraine, especially when ranked by sheer shipment volume, as per the reports on seed statistics. This article uses data from international trade databases and export trackers to provide a comprehensive, data-driven look at the top 10 global seed exporters that export seeds, highlighting shipment numbers, dollar values, and key market trends, based on the seed export data for 2024-25.

Global Seed Export Market Overview

• Total global seed exports (all categories): Roughly USD 15–20 billion annually.

• Top categories by value:

• Vegetable seeds for sowing (HS Code 120991)

• Maize (corn) seed for sowing (HS Code 100510)

• Rape and colza seed (HS Code 1205)

• Leading regions: Europe (Netherlands, France, Hungary), North America (USA, Canada), and emerging Asia (India, Vietnam, China).

• Growth drivers: Rising demand for hybrid and climate-resilient seeds, expansion of commercial agriculture in emerging markets, and stronger R&D investments in biotech seed varieties.

Seed Exports by Country: What are the Top 10 Countries that Export Seeds?

Seed exports by country are a significant aspect of global agriculture. The top 10 countries that export seeds play a crucial role in supplying quality seeds worldwide. Among these leading exporters are the United States, the Netherlands, France, China, Germany, and many more, as per the global seed export data. These countries excel in producing and distributing various types of seeds, contributing to the agricultural growth and diversity across the globe. The top 10 leading seed exporters or seed-exporting countries that export seeds in 2024-25, as per the latest seed export statistics and seed shipment data, include: 

1. Netherlands: $2.70 billion (28.6%)

The Netherlands takes the top spot as the leading country in seed exports, with an impressive export value of $2.70 billion, as per the data on Netherlands seed exports. Known for its advanced agricultural practices and innovative seed technologies, the Netherlands has established itself as a key player in the global seed market.

2. USA: $1.06 billion (11.3%)

Coming in second is the United States, with seed exports totaling $1.06 billion, as per the US seed export data by HS code. The USA boasts a diverse range of seed varieties, from corn and soybeans to vegetables and fruits, catering to the needs of farmers worldwide.

3. Germany: $902.94 million (9.6%)

Germany secures the third position on the list, with seed exports amounting to $902.94 million. Renowned for its high-quality seeds and cutting-edge research in plant breeding, Germany continues to be a major exporter of seeds on the global stage.

4. France: $848.91 million (9%)

France follows closely behind, with seed exports valued at $848.91 million. With a rich agricultural heritage and a focus on sustainability, France plays a significant role in supplying seeds for various crops across the world.

5. Italy: $414.37 million (4.4%)

Italy stands out as the fifth-largest exporter of seeds, with a total export value of $414.37 million. Italian seeds are known for their superior quality and adaptability, making them a popular choice among farmers globally.

6. Denmark: $406.69 million (4.3%)

Denmark ranks sixth on the list of top seed-exporting countries, with exports reaching $406.69 million. The country's emphasis on organic and environmentally friendly farming practices has contributed to its success in the seed market.

7. Belgium: $235.54 million (2.5%)

Belgium holds the seventh position, with seed exports amounting to $235.54 million. Despite its small size, Belgium plays a significant role in seed production and export, particularly in the European market.

8. Chile: $213.59 million (2.3%)

Chile emerges as the eighth-largest exporter of seeds, with export values totaling $213.59 million. The country's diverse climatic conditions enable it to produce a wide variety of seeds for different agricultural purposes.

9. Israel: $201.00 million (2.1%)

Israel secures the ninth spot on the list, with seed exports worth $201.00 million. Known for its advanced agricultural technology and expertise in desert farming, Israel continues to be a key player in the global seed trade.

10. China: $191.90 million (2%)

Rounding out the top 10 is China, with seed exports reaching $191.90 million. As one of the world's largest agricultural producers, China's contribution to the seed export market is significant and continues to grow.

List of Top Seed Exporters Globally: Seed Suppliers & Exporters Database 

The Seed Suppliers & Exporters Database serves as a comprehensive resource for businesses seeking to engage in the seed export industry. This database showcases top seed exporters worldwide, providing valuable insights into key players and suppliers in the market. In the global seed trade market, this database offers detailed information on seed exporters, helping companies make informed decisions and establish fruitful partnerships within the global seed trade network. The top seed export companies or the leading seed exporters in the world, as per the global seed exporters data & seed suppliers list for 2024-25, include: 

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

Top 10 Seed Exporting Countries by Quantity

The ranking below integrates shipment counts (number of consignments exported, reflecting activity and reach) with trade value in USD and volume (kg/tons), where available, for global seed exports, by the top 10 countries that export seeds by shipment volume in 2024-25: 

1. India – Global Leader in Shipments

• Shipments: 758,000 in 2024.

• Export Value: Approx. USD 800 million across all seed categories.

• Export Volume: Several hundred thousand tons annually (grain + vegetable seeds combined).

• Key Seed Types: Hybrid rice, maize, vegetable seeds, pulses, oilseeds.

• Markets: Asia (Bangladesh, Vietnam, Indonesia), Africa (Kenya, Nigeria), Europe, and North America.

Why India leads: India dominates global shipments because of its vast agricultural base and cost competitiveness. Hybrid rice and maize seeds, along with vegetable seed exports, make up a large share. The country’s climate diversity allows year-round production of multiple seed types.

Challenges: Regulatory hurdles, phytosanitary certifications, and intellectual property protection are key barriers to accessing premium markets like the EU.

2. Ukraine – The Fast-Rising Challenger

• Shipments: 304,000 in 2024.

• Export Value: USD 121 million in maize seed exports alone in 2023, up from negligible levels just a few years ago. Total seed exports exceed USD 500 million when including rape/colza and other categories.

• Export Volume: Millions of kilograms, especially in maize and oilseed categories.

• Key Seed Types: Maize seed, rape/colza seed, sunflower seed.

• Markets: Primarily the European Union under preferential access agreements.

Why Ukraine is surging: Despite war-related disruptions, Ukraine has emerged as a major supplier of maize seed to the EU. Its fertile soils and low costs allow competitive production. In oilseeds, Ukraine joins Canada and Australia as a global heavyweight.

Challenges: Infrastructure damage, export risks due to conflict, and reliance on EU trade terms.

3. United States – Innovation and High-Value Exports

• Shipments: 209,000 in 2024.

• Export Value: Over USD 2.5 billion annually in seed exports, making it one of the largest exporters by value.

• Export Volume: Tens of millions of kilograms, particularly maize and soybean seed.

• Key Seed Types: Hybrid maize (corn), soybeans, vegetable seeds, GMO, and biotech seeds.

• Markets: Europe, Latin America, and Asia.

Why the U.S. dominates value rankings: The U.S. leads in high-value hybrid and GMO seeds backed by R&D-heavy companies. Exports include proprietary varieties with strong breeder rights protection, as per the USDA seeds report.

Challenges: High production costs, regulatory restrictions in non-GMO markets, and growing competition from lower-cost producers.

4. China – Scaling Regionally

• Shipments: 165,000 in 2024.

• Export Value: Estimated USD 600–700 million annually.

• Export Volume: Hundreds of thousands of tons, especially rice and vegetable seeds.

• Key Seed Types: Hybrid rice, vegetable seeds, regionally adapted varieties.

• Markets: Southeast Asia, South Asia, Africa.

Why China is growing: China has built a strong domestic seed industry and is pushing exports to neighboring markets where its varieties suit local growing conditions.

Challenges: Quality perception abroad, intellectual property concerns, and compliance with strict Western regulatory standards.

5. Vietnam – Regional Export Hub

• Shipments: 160,000 in 2024.

• Export Value: Around USD 300–400 million annually.

• Export Volume: Dozens of thousands of tons, especially in rice and vegetable seeds.

• Key Seed Types: Hybrid rice, tropical vegetable seeds, and ornamentals.

• Markets: Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Africa.

Why Vietnam is rising: Low labor costs, favorable climate, and strong hybrid rice programs give Vietnam a foothold in the global seed trade, as per the Vietnam seed export data.

Challenges: Quality consistency, limited infrastructure, and weaker brand recognition.

6. Russia – Grain and Forage Dominance

• Shipments: 142,000 in 2024.

• Export Value: Estimated USD 500 million+ annually across seeds.

• Export Volume: Several million tons (barley, wheat, rye, sunflower seed).

• Key Seed Types: Grain seeds, forage crops, oilseeds.

• Markets: Asia, the Middle East, and trade partners not aligned with Western sanctions.

Why Russia matters: Its vast land base supports large-scale seed production, especially in cereals and oilseeds, as per Russia customs export data of seeds.

Challenges: Sanctions limit access to premium markets. Lack of advanced certification systems reduces competitiveness in high-value hybrid seed.

7. Turkey – Crossroads of Europe and Asia

• Shipments: 101,000 in 2024.

• Export Value: Around USD 250–300 million annually.

• Export Volume: Tens of thousands of tons.

• Key Seed Types: Sunflower, vegetable seeds, cereals, and forage crops.

• Markets: Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.

Why Turkey is a strategic exporter: Its geographic position makes it a bridge between Europe and Asia. Turkey benefits from climate diversity and growing R&D in vegetable seeds.

Challenges: EU regulatory compliance, climate risks (drought), and competition from both Europe and Asia.

8. Chile – The Counter-Season Specialist

• Shipments: 97,000 in 2024.

• Export Value: Over USD 300 million annually.

• Export Volume: Several tens of thousands of tons, largely high-value vegetable seeds.

• Key Seed Types: Vegetable seeds, hybrid maize, and forage crops.

• Markets: United States, Europe, Asia.

Why Chile is an important seed supplier: Its counter-season production allows global companies to double their seed cycles. Strong biosecurity and quality standards make Chile a trusted partner.

Challenges: Distance from key markets increases logistics costs. Climate risks, particularly drought, are emerging threats.

9. Moldova – The Emerging Niche Exporter

• Shipments: 80,000 in 2024.

• Export Value: Estimated USD 100–150 million annually.

• Export Volume: Tens of thousands of tons, mainly in grains.

• Key Seed Types: Sunflower, maize, grain seeds.

• Markets: Eastern Europe, EU neighbors.

Why Moldova is growing as a top seed supplier: Low costs and a favorable climate support niche seed production. Alignment with EU standards could boost exports further.

Challenges: Weak infrastructure, small scale, and heavy reliance on a few export markets.

10. Thailand – Tropical Seed Specialist

• Shipments: 57,000 in 2024.

• Export Value: Around USD 150 million annually.

• Export Volume: Thousands of tons, mainly vegetable and ornamental seeds.

• Key Seed Types: Peppers, cucumbers, beans, tropical vegetables, and ornamentals.

• Markets: Southeast Asia, South Asia, Africa.

Why Thailand is unique: Its climate gives it a natural advantage in tropical seed production.

Challenges: Pest/disease risks, climate volatility, and need for stronger cold-chain infrastructure.

Seed Market Segments Driving Growth

1. Maize Seed: France, Hungary, and the U.S. dominate premium hybrid maize seed exports. Ukraine is catching up in volume.

2. Vegetable Seeds: Netherlands, France, the U.S., Chile, and India lead this high-margin segment.

3. Rape/Colza Seed: Canada, Australia, and Ukraine control about 72% of the global trade.

4. Hybrid Rice Seed: China, India, and Vietnam dominate, supplying Asia and Africa. 

Key Challenges Facing Seed Suppliers & Exporters

• Regulation: Strict phytosanitary and breeder rights requirements, especially in the EU and Japan.

• Climate Change: Droughts and floods threaten seed crop stability in countries like Chile, India, and Thailand.

• Geopolitics: Ukraine’s rise depends on EU access; Russia is constrained by sanctions.

• IP Protection: Critical for high-value hybrids and biotech seeds.

• Logistics: Cold-chain and port infrastructure are essential for premium seeds.

Outlook for 2025 and Beyond

• Emerging exporters (India, Vietnam, Turkey) will continue to gain share in volume.

• Premium markets will remain dominated by the Netherlands, France, U.S., and Canada due to their innovation and IP strength.

• Climate-resilient and drought-tolerant seeds will be the fastest-growing categories.

• Trade policy (EU agreements, sanctions, tariffs) will heavily influence seed flows.

• R&D investment will separate high-value exporters from bulk suppliers.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the 2024-25 global seed export market tells two stories. By shipments, India & Ukraine are now at the top, showing the power of scale & cost competitiveness. But by value, traditional leaders like the Netherlands, France, the U.S., and Canada remain firmly in control of the most profitable seed markets. The seed trade will only become more competitive as climate change, food security concerns, and geopolitical tensions drive demand for resilient, innovative varieties. Countries that combine scale, quality, and innovation, and navigate complex trade rules, will define the next chapter of global agriculture.

We hope that you liked our insightful blog report on the global seed export data & the top seed exporters & suppliers in 2025. For more insights into the latest global trade trends or to search live data on seed exports by country, visit TradeImeX. Contact us at info@tradeimex.in for customized trade reports, market insights, and an exclusive seed exporters database, as per your business needs.