In 2024, the United States processed vegetable trade data showed an increase in both import value and volume. Imports reached $8.03 billion, a 10% rise year over year, marking the highest recorded value. This growth was largely influenced by frozen vegetables, which constituted 51% of the total import value. Total import volume increased by 5% to 22.86 billion pounds, though this remained below the 2022 peak, suggesting a preference for higher-value products, according to the USDA.
Frozen vegetable imports topped $4 billion for the first time, driven by ongoing demand for frozen potato products, particularly french fries. Imports of frozen broccoli and cauliflower decreased, while sweet corn, snap bean, and spinach imports increased. Prepared or preserved vegetables saw value growth, rising 14% to over $3 billion, led by tomato products like sauces. Notably, potato, bell pepper, and artichoke imports rose, while cucumber and mushroom products declined. Dried or dehydrated vegetable imports saw a modest 6% increase in value to $767 million, with potato starch at the forefront. Additionally, vegetable juice imports surged 40% to over $100 million, indicating a niche but growing category.
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On the export front, the U.S. exported $3.8 billion worth of processed vegetables, a 6% increase from 2023. Export volumes rose 8% to 15.52 billion pounds, the highest since 2019, primarily due to frozen and prepared or preserved products. Frozen vegetable exports reached $1.79 billion, with potato products, particularly frozen french fries, leading. Exports of frozen sweet potatoes increased by 274%, fueled by rising demand in the European Union, while sweet corn exports fell. Prepared or preserved vegetable exports also climbed 10% to $1.65 billion, with tomato pastes and sauces as key contributors. In contrast, exports of dried or dehydrated vegetables declined, attributed mainly to reduced demand for potato-based products, while vegetable juice exports saw growth, driven by tomato and mixed vegetable juices.
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In 2025, IQF vegetable price trends showed moderate fluctuations. Carrot IQF diced fob Ontario, CA prices rose from $0.37/lb to about $0.45/lb by April. Maize (sweetcorn) yellow IQF fob West Coast prices recovered, reaching $0.61/lb in March. Beans, green cut IQF fob Midwest showed slight upward movement, whereas Peas AAA IQF fob Midwest remained stable. Onion IQF diced fob East Coast saw a price decline from $0.62/lb to about $0.59/lb by April. Overall, 2025 IQF prices exhibited mild increases, except for onions, which trended downward.
Source: Mintec/Expana
