Portugal ranks third in EU tomato production in 2024

In 2024, Portugal distinguished itself as a prominent agricultural player by ranking as the third largest producer of tomatoes within the European Union. This production, amounting to 1.7 million tons, placed Portugal behind two major competitors: Italy, with a remarkable output of six million tons, and Spain, which produced 4.5 million tons. This achievement not only marks a significant moment in Portugal’s agricultural sector but also highlights its contribution to the overall vegetable production in the EU. According to statistics published by Eurostat, the total fresh vegetable harvest in the EU reached an impressive 62.2 million tons, representing a 6% increase compared to the previous year, 2023. The agricultural landscape of the EU showcased notable improvements in yield across various vegetables last year. The increase in tomato production represented a 5% rise, while carrots and onions also saw growth, with production rising by 6% and 11% respectively. This surge reflects the agricultural advancements and favorable conditions within the EU, enabling countries like Portugal to enhance their output and maintain competitive standings. Spain, Italy, and France emerged as the leading vegetables producers, commanding a substantial 55% of the EU’s total harvest, thus reinforcing the importance of these countries in the European agricultural economy. However, despite the competitive landscape, Portugal’s position as the third-largest tomato producer is a testament to its agricultural efforts. With 10% of the EU’s total tomato output, Portugal’s contribution not only assists in meeting domestic demand but is also crucial in fulfilling the needs of neighboring EU countries. The agricultural policies and practices undertaken within Portugal have played a critical role in achieving this noteworthy ranking. The data from Eurostat emphasizes the significance of targeting agricultural development and investment in innovative farming techniques to maintain and improve production standards. The 2024 EU agricultural production highlights the dynamic nature of the agricultural sector and its ever-increasing yield, demonstrating the ongoing demand for vegetables in the market. It is essential for Portugal to continue its focus on quality and sustainability in tomato production, as it seeks to build on this success and potentially challenge for a higher ranking in the coming years. As the demand for fresh produce remains strong within the EU, maintaining this momentum will be critical for Portugal’s agricultural future.