Exports of fruits, vegetables and flowers rise in the first half of the year

National exports of fruits, vegetables and flowers increased by 9.2% in value in the first half of the year, compared to the same period in 2024, reaching more than 1.288 billion euros, Portugal Fresh said this Wednesday.

The sector association's analysis, based on data from the National Statistics Institute (INE), highlights that the quantity of products sold in foreign markets also registered an increase, now totaling more than 837 million kilos, which represents an increase of 8.9% compared to the first half of last year.

"The European Union is the main destination for fruits, vegetables and flowers produced in Portugal," said Gonçalo Santos Andrade, president of Portugal Fresh, arguing that "Portugal is increasingly competitive" and "offers differentiated products, with food safety and of excellent quality."

At the same time, imports of those products also increased by 9.5%, to 1,486 million euros, 128 million more compared to 2024, with the imported volume also growing, from 1,240 million kilos to 1,380 million kilos (+11.2%).

"We need ambition and a solid commitment to unlock the enormous potential of the agricultural sector and reduce the burden of imports," stressed Gonçalo Santos Andrade.

To increase competitiveness in the sector, the official argued that cooperation between farmers and the concentration of supply are strategic needs , as well as urgent investments in irrigation infrastructure and efficient water management.

Created in December 2010, Portugal Fresh — Association for the Promotion of Fruits, Vegetables and Flowers of Portugal has 112 members representing around 5,000 farmers.