Brussels: Fresh vegetable production in the European Union reached 62.2 million tonnes in 2024, marking a 6% increase compared with 2023 (58.8 million tonnes), according to Eurostat, the EU’s statistical office. Spain, Italy, and France were the leading vegetable producers, accounting for 34.5 million tonnes, or 55% of the EU total. Tomato production rose by 5%, reaching 16.8 million tonnes, while carrots grew by 6% to 4.7 million tonnes. Onion production recorded the largest increase, up 11% to 7 million tonnes.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Italy remained the top tomato producer, contributing 36% of the EU total, followed by Spain (27%) and Portugal (10%). For carrots, Germany led with 18%, ahead of France (14%) and Poland (12%). In onion production, the Netherlands dominated with 26%, followed by Spain (20%) and Germany (12%).
In contrast, production of fruits, berries, and nuts (excluding citrus fruits, grapes, and strawberries) declined by 2%, totaling 24.3 million tonnes. Italy (5.4 million tonnes), Spain (4.3 million tonnes), and Poland (4.1 million tonnes) accounted for 57% of the EU harvest. Apple production dropped by 4% to 11.6 million tonnes, with Poland producing 29%, Italy 21%, and France 17%. Pear production, however, grew by 2% to 1.9 million tonnes, led by Italy (24%), the Netherlands (17%), and Belgium (15%).
Peach production rose slightly by 2%, dominated by Spain (37%), Italy (33%), and Greece (21%), which together made up 91% of the EU total. In Cyprus, fresh vegetable production stood at 72,650 tonnes, with tomatoes making up the largest share at 12,630 tonnes. Carrot production was limited to 2,200 tonnes, while onions reached 4,260 tonnes, placing Cyprus among the EU’s smallest producers.
Fruit, berry, and nut production in Cyprus totaled 18,880 tonnes in 2024, including 2,650 tonnes of apples. Pear production was 450 tonnes, while peaches amounted to 1,410 tonnes.