The global apple industry is one of the most important sectors of agriculture, with millions of tons of apples produced and exported every year. In 2023, the top five countries that are expected to produce and export the most apples are China, the United States, India, Turkey, and Poland.
China
China is the world's largest producer of apples, accounting for almost half of the world's total production. In 2024, China is expected to produce around 40 million metric tons of apples, which is a 5% increase from the previous year. The main apple-growing regions in China are Shandong, Shaanxi, and Henan, with Shandong being the largest producer. China exports a significant amount of its apple production, with over 1.5 million metric tons exported annually. The main export markets for Chinese apples are Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
United States
The United States is the second-largest producer of apples in the world, with an estimated production of 5.6 million metric tons in 2023. The main apple-growing regions in the US are Washington, New York, and Michigan. Washington is by far the largest producer of apples in the country, accounting for over 60% of total production. The US is also a major exporter of apples, with over 1 million metric tons exported annually. The main export markets for US apples are Mexico, Canada, and India.
India
India is the third-largest producer of apples in the world, with an estimated production of 4 million metric tons in 2023. The main apple-growing regions in India are Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, with Jammu and Kashmir being the largest producer. Despite being a major producer, India only exports a small amount of its apple production, with less than 100,000 metric tons exported annually. The main export markets for Indian apples are Bangladesh, Nepal, and the Middle East.
Turkey
Turkey is the fourth-largest producer of apples in the world, with an estimated production of 3.5 million metric tons in 2023. The main apple-growing regions in Turkey are Isparta, Antalya, and Bursa, with Isparta being the largest producer. Turkey is also a major exporter of apples, with over 500,000 metric tons exported annually. The main export markets for Turkish apples are Russia, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates.
Poland
Poland is the fifth-largest producer of apples in the world, with an estimated production of 3.2 million metric tons in 2023. The main apple-growing regions in Poland are Mazovia, Wielkopolska, and Lublin, with Mazovia being the largest producer. Poland is also a major exporter of apples, with over 1 million metric tons exported annually. The main export markets for Polish apples are Germany, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands.
The global apple industry is dominated by a few major producers, with China being by far the largest. However, the other top producers such as the United States, India, Turkey, and Poland are also significant players in the market. These countries not only produce large amounts of apples but also export them to markets around the world. As the global population continues to grow, the demand for apples and other fruits is expected to increase, making the apple industry a crucial part of the global food supply chain.