These 10 countries supply nearly half the world’s food exports

Food moves across borders every day, connecting farmers, businesses and consumers in ways that often go unnoticed. While many countries produce enough food to meet local demand, a much smaller group supplies a large share of the products traded on the global market.

New data from the World Trade Organization shows that just 10 countries accounted for nearly half of global agricultural exports in 2024. Together, they played a central role in supplying food to millions of people beyond their borders.

The figures come from an analysis of the world’s 30 largest food exporters. Collectively, these countries made up more than 80 per cent of the global agricultural export market, which was valued at about $1.5 trillion.

The findings also show how concentrated the global food trade has become. As shipping costs, fertiliser prices and geopolitical tensions continue to affect international commerce, decisions made by a small number of exporting countries can influence food availability and prices across many regions.

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1. United States – $181.3 billion

The United States ranked first, exporting agricultural products worth $181.3 billion in 2024. It accounted for 12.1 per cent of global agricultural exports, making it the largest supplier in the international food trade. The country’s exports include grains, soybeans, meat, dairy products and processed food sold across several continents.

2. Brazil – $144.4 billion

Brazil secured second place with agricultural exports worth $144.4 billion, representing 9.7 per cent of the global total. The country remains one of the world’s main exporters of soybeans, beef, poultry, sugar and coffee. Agriculture continues to play a major role in Brazil’s export earnings.

3. China – $74.8 billion

China exported agricultural products valued at $74.8 billion, accounting for five per cent of global exports. Although China produces large volumes of food, much of its agricultural output is consumed within the country because of its large population. Its export portfolio includes vegetables, seafood, tea and processed food products.

4. Canada – $66.3 billion

Canada recorded agricultural exports worth $66.3 billion, representing 4.4 per cent of global exports. Wheat, canola, pulses, pork and seafood remain among its leading export products, serving markets in Asia, Europe and the Americas.

5. Mexico – $49.9 billion

Mexico exported agricultural goods valued at $49.9 billion, accounting for 3.3 per cent of global trade. The country is known for exporting fruit, vegetables, avocados, berries and beverages, with the United States remaining one of its largest trading partners.

6. Indonesia – $49.7 billion

Indonesia followed closely with exports worth $49.7 billion, also representing 3.3 per cent of global agricultural exports. Palm oil remains one of the country’s leading agricultural exports, alongside coffee, cocoa and seafood.

7. Australia – $45.8 billion

Australia exported agricultural products worth $45.8 billion, contributing 3.1 per cent of global exports. Beef, wheat, barley, wool and dairy products continue to support the country’s agricultural trade with markets across Asia and the Middle East.

8. India – $45.5 billion

India recorded agricultural exports valued at $45.5 billion, accounting for three per cent of global exports. Rice, spices, sugar, tea and seafood remain among the country’s leading agricultural exports, reaching consumers in many parts of the world.

9. Thailand – $41.8 billion

Thailand exported agricultural products worth $41.8 billion, representing 2.8 per cent of global exports. Rice, rubber, seafood, fruit and processed food products continue to support the country’s position in international food markets.

10. France – $38.7 billion

France completed the top 10 with agricultural exports worth $38.7 billion, accounting for 2.6 per cent of global exports. The country exports wheat, dairy products, wine and processed food across Europe and other international markets.