Portuguese exports of fruits, vegetables, and flowers rose by 9.2% in value between January and June 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, reaching more than €1.288 billion (US$1.41 billion).
According to data from INE, export volumes also increased, totalling more than 837 million kilos, up 8.9% compared to the first half of last year.
Imports of fruits, vegetables, and flowers also grew, reaching €1.486 billion (US$1.63 billion), an increase of €128 million (US$140 million) or 9.5% compared to 2024. Import volumes rose from 1.24 billion kilos to 1.38 billion kilos, an increase of 11.2%.
"The European Union is the main destination for fruits, vegetables, and flowers produced in Portugal. And the numbers show that Portugal is increasingly competitive, offering differentiated, food-safe, and high-quality products. But we need ambition and a solid commitment to unlock the enormous potential of the agricultural sector and reduce the burden of imports," said Gonçalo Santos Andrade, president of Portugal Fresh.
"Only through cooperation between farmers and the concentration of supply will it be possible to increase the sector's competitiveness. In an increasingly demanding and global agriculture, working together is a strategic necessity. At the same time, investments in irrigation infrastructure and efficient water management are urgently needed," Andrade added.
Portugal Fresh, the Association for the Promotion of Fruits, Vegetables, and Flowers of Portugal, has 112 members representing approximately 5,000 farmers. Founded in December 2010, its mission is to promote the "Portugal" origin and the characteristics of national products, as well as to promote fruits, vegetables, and flowers in both domestic and international markets.
Source: Sulinformacao
