Europe: Positive trade balance for the agri-food sector

The latest European Commission report on EU agri-food trade shows that, during the first four months of 2026, the EU agri-food trade surplus reached EUR 15.6 billion, an increase of EUR 233 million compared with the same period in 2025.
 

Exports decline, but trade surplus grows

EU agri-food exports totaled EUR 77.6 billion between January and April 2026, representing a 3% decrease compared with 2025. The United Kingdom remained the leading export destination.

Exports to Egypt increased by 49%, driven by wheat. Exports to Ukraine also rose by 7%, with spirits recording the largest increase.

However, trade disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz resulted in a 25% decline in exports to the United Arab Emirates.
 

Imports continue to decline

Due to lower imports of cocoa products, cereals, oilseeds and protein crops, cumulative imports declined by 7% compared with the previous year, reaching EUR 62.0 billion, further strengthening the EU's positive trade balance.

Import values from Côte d'Ivoire, Nigeria, Cameroon and Guinea declined as cocoa prices continued to fall.

Imports of Ukrainian wheat fell by 71%. Meanwhile, imports from Vietnam increased by 16%, driven by higher coffee volumes.

The strongest import growth was recorded in the fruit and nuts category (+6%), with increases across several products, particularly avocados and hazelnuts.
 

EU agri-food trade maintains a positive balance

Overall, EU agri-food trade remains resilient, with a strong trade surplus offsetting weaker performance in key sectors.