Berries, Grapes and Avocados Lead U.S Import Increases

Berries, Grapes and Avocados Lead U.S Import Increases

U.S. imports of fruits and vegetables rose 6 percent from May 2019 through April 2020, which was led by grapes, avocados and berries.

USDA trade statistics report imports of fresh vegetables for the period were $9.31 billion for the year ending April, up 7 percent. Imports of frozen/fresh fruit were $15.08 billion, up 6 percent.

Combined U.S. imports of fruits and vegetables totaled $24.38 billion, up 6 percent from the previous year.

Imports of avocados rose 14 percent for the year ending in April, the value of grape imports increased 24 percent and berries (excluding strawberries) increased 8 percent compared with the previous year.

U.S. imports for the year from May 2019 to April 2020, with percentage change compared to the previous year:

  • Berries (excluding strawberries): $2.92 billion, up 8 percent;
  • Avocados: $2.79 billion, up 14 percent;
  • Bananas/Plantains (fresh/frozen), $2.46 billion, up 1 percent;
  • Tomatoes: $2.4 billion, up 1 percent;
  • Grapes: $1.77 billion, up 24 percent;
  •  Peppers: $1,66 billion, up 4 percent;
  • Citrus: $1.18 billion, down 6 percent; and
  • Strawberries (fresh or frozen): $1.01 billion, up 3 percent.