EU: Agro trade performs well in 2022 despite challenges

EXPORT

In 2022, EU agri-food exports reached €229.8 billion, up 31% from 2021. The share of cereals increased in total EU exports. These products accounted for 7% of EU exports, with a total value of 16.9 billion euros. In line with its commitment to global food security, the EU is increasing wheat exports to emerging economies. The value of wheat exports increased by 63% year on year, reaching 11.6 billion euros. The most important destinations were Algeria (4.9 million tons), Morocco (4.1 million tons), Egypt (2.9 million tons) and Nigeria (2.5 million tons).

Export of wheat from the EU (million tons, calendar year). Source: European Commission.

One of the main elements of EU exports remains dairy products with exports of 20.4 billion euros in 2022. Pork also remained the largest export MEAT product, with an export value of EUR 13.8 billion last year, despite a 40% decline in demand in the Chinese market.

Import

In 2022, EU imports increased by 32% compared to 2021 to 172 billion euros. This is largely due to rising global prices, especially for oilseeds and coffee. The main category of imported products are oilseeds and protein crops, in 2022 the EU purchased them in the amount of 25.8 billion euros. Soybean imports reached 8.7 billion euros. Corn imports have also risen to offset a domestic decline in EU production.