Increase in exports of domestic vegetables

The Polish vegetable sector recorded a significant increase in exports between July-October 2024, however there was a reduction in consumption on the domestic market. According to the Central Statistical Office (GUS), vegetable exports (CN07) increased by more than 4% year-on-year.

The main driver of the increase in Polish vegetable exports was the dynamic expansion into foreign markets, especially to Romania.

Cabbage and potatoes at the forefront of exports

Cabbage exports, despite limited supply on the domestic market, increased by as much as 21 percent compared to the previous year. The largest recipient was Romania, which also significantly increased the purchase of Polish potatoes. As a result, in the first four months of the 2024/25 season, potato exports exceeded 80 thousand tonnes, which means a more than twofold increase year-on-year.

Export success of other vegetables

A significant increase in exports was also recorded in the case of legumes such as peas and beans. The main recipients were the Netherlands and Belgium, where Polish legumes are becoming more and more popular.

Frozen vegetable exports

Exports of frozen vegetables from Poland increased by 2.3% y/y, which was the result of increased deliveries mainly to the United Kingdom. However, a decrease in exports was recorded to Belgium and the USA.

An opportunity to increase the export of Polish vegetables to EU markets

The new EU regulations on fruit and vegetable labelling, which came into force from 2025, require clear and detailed information to be placed on labels. It is particularly important that the country of origin is more visible on labels , rather than the place of packaging, which will significantly reduce the risk of misleading buyers.

For Polish producers, the new regulations are an opportunity to stand out on the EU market. Displaying the Polish origin of vegetables will allow for the building of a national brand and increase consumer trust. Polish products, are known for their high quality and more natural cultivation methods and should therefore gain even more popularity.

Sources:

• Inspection of commercial quality of agricultural and food products, „Znakowanie owoców i warzyw – nowe przepisy dla handlowców”,11.2024r.
• Sadyogrody.pl, „Rośnie eksport krajowych warzyw. Dominuje jeden kierunek”, 01.2025r.