While Europe remains the leading export destination for French fresh fruit and vegetables, international sales of apples continue to grow, particularly in Asian markets. Daniel Soares, international director of Interfel, provides an update.
© FreshPlaza Interfel booth at Fruit Attraction 2025
Asia: The leading international destination for French apples
French apple exports have dropped (according to ANPP figures for the last campaign) in Middle Eastern markets, but some Asian destinations are performing well. "We are currently regaining market share. Before COVID, the dynamic was very positive. It then slowed down but is now picking up again," explains Daniel Soares. The leading importing countries are Vietnam and Thailand, with a 51% and 12% increase, respectively. Japan also recorded a significant increase (+11.2% in value), mainly for truffles. "Vietnam, which opened its market to France in 2015, has been growing steadily for ten years. This year, we even achieved a record campaign." After a slight drop, Thailand is now also back on track. French apples are appealing to Asian consumers "because they are quality apples, with a distinctive flavor that perfectly matches the expectations of these markets."
India: The geopolitical context reshuffles the cards
India is another destination that is now emerging as a high-potential market. India is not a new market for French apples, but flows to the country have seen a marked acceleration. "Volumes to India have risen sharply in recent months due to the political context, which has led the country to diversify its supplies," explains Daniel Soares. Historically, India imported a lot of apples from the United States, but the tariffs introduced under the Trump administration have prompted the country to reduce its dependence and turn to other producing countries such as France."
Mexico: A new market for French apples
South America is also growing. Mexico joined the list of importing countries this year, alongside Colombia, Ecuador, and Guatemala. "After 25 years of negotiations, the country has officially opened its doors to French apples. The first shipments are currently underway." Once again, the political context on the other side of the Atlantic has prompted Mexico to diversify its sources of supply.
Other French fruits in the running?
When asked about potential new openings, Daniel Soares remains cautious. "Nothing is planned for the short term. The Peruvian market is under consideration, but that would be a long-term project: five years at best." These lengthy and complex procedures can be explained by the very nature of the negotiations. "We have to discuss each article individually, and everything also depends on the degree of protectionism of the country concerned, especially as the current global geopolitical context is not the most favorable." Discussions are reportedly underway for plums and pears in Vietnam and pears in Thailand. French walnuts could also soon find their way onto Indian shelves.
Over 80% of French fruit and vegetables are exported to Europe, with the main destinations in order of importance being Spain, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland.
"We have received nothing but positive feedback!"
In just a few years, Fruit Attraction in Madrid has become the must-attend event for the fruit and vegetable sector. Indeed, the organizers have announced a new attendance record for 2025. "It is simple, we had a huge number of meetings and contacts, and we have received nothing but positive feedback," explains Daniel Soares. For the international director of Interfel, the Madrid fair "has established itself as Europe's most important fair for the fresh fruit and vegetable sector. Nevertheless, Berlin remains a benchmark and continues to play a major role in meeting operators from the southern hemisphere, hence the importance to maintain these two complementary events."
Having just returned from the Global Produce and Floral Show held in Anaheim, California, Daniel Soares also stresses the value of these other international events. "It is a good meeting point for companies with clients in South America or the United States, where France exports shallots, for instance."
For more information:
Interfel
97 Boulevard Pereire, 75017 Paris
Phone: +33 (0) 1 49 49 15 15
