The first half of 2024 marked a milestone for Andalusia’s agri-food industry. With exports reaching a record-breaking €8.903 billion, Andalusia reinforced its position as the leader in Spain’s agri-food export sector. This impressive figure represents a 14% increase compared to the same period in 2023, and Andalusia now accounts for 23.7% of Spain’s total agri-food exports. This means that nearly one in four euros of Spanish agricultural exports originated from Andalusia.
Andalusia’s export success can largely be attributed to its thriving fruit and vegetable sector. Vegetables alone generated €2.415 billion, accounting for 27.1% of the region’s total exports, while fruit exports also hit a record €2.060 billion, making up 23.1% of the total. This demonstrates the region’s specialization in high-value horticultural products, which have become a cornerstone of Andalusia’s agri-food sector.
Germany remains Andalusia’s top export destination, importing €1.608 billion worth of agri-food products, representing 18.1% of the total. Despite economic uncertainties across Europe, German demand for Andalusian products increased slightly by 0.5% compared to the first half of 2023. France and Italy also showed robust demand, with exports to these markets rising by 9.1% and 40.5%, respectively.
A notable development in 2024 is the rapid growth of Andalusian exports to the American continent, which saw an astonishing 49.7% increase, totaling €1.094 billion. The United States emerged as the leading non-European market for Andalusian agri-food products, with exports soaring by 54.1% to €713 million. This growth underscores the diversification of Andalusia’s export markets, as it expands beyond its traditional European customer base.
The Andalusian agri-food sector’s positive trade balance further highlights its economic impact. In the first half of 2024, the sector contributed €5.249 billion to Andalusia’s overall trade surplus with the world. The region achieved a coverage rate of 243.6%, significantly outperforming Spain’s national average of 139%. This high coverage rate reflects Andalusia’s strong export performance relative to its imports, underscoring its competitiveness on the global stage.
Six out of Andalusia’s eight provinces achieved their highest-ever export figures during this period, with Almería leading the way at €2.289 billion. The province’s focus on vegetable production has made it a powerhouse in Andalusia’s agri-food export strategy.
Andalusia’s record-breaking agri-food exports in 2024 underscore the region’s pivotal role in Spain’s agricultural economy. With Germany leading the way as the top destination, and the United States and other markets showing strong growth, Andalusia has proven its ability to diversify and thrive in a competitive global marketplace. As the region continues to expand its reach, its agricultural sector will remain a key driver of economic growth and territorial cohesion in Andalusia.
