Global onion production almost doubled since 2000

Globally, the production and international trade of onions is still growing. The FAO estimates that each year over 80 million tons of onions are produced on a commercial basis. The onion really is a "global product". There are few countries where no onions are grown or eaten. It is therefore not surprising that many populous countries grow onions. China is by far the largest producer with an estimated (commercial) production of 25 million tons. India is second on the list, with 16 million tons. Together, these two countries account for almost half the world’s production. In terms of population, China and India account for 37% of the world’s total: over 7 billion. Other, much smaller producers include the United States, Iran, Egypt, Turkey, Russia and Pakistan. Just making it into the top 10 are the Netherlands and Brazil, both with an annual production of 1.5 million tons.

Exactly how many onions are traded worldwide is not known. Including (1st year) plant onions and shallots, we’re talking about 7 million tons with a value of over $ 3 billion. Yet each year, international trade increases, and since 2000 it has more than doubled. The Netherlands are the world's number one exporter of onions, followed at a distance by India and China, in turn followed by Egypt, Mexico, the United States, Spain and Argentina (see chart).

The Netherlands are also a big importer. In 2011, about 220,000 tons was imported, of which 187,000 tons onions, 30,000 tons of plant onions and 3,900 tons of shallots (also CBS figures for 2011).

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