Vegetables for export

Types of vegetables for export

Exporting vegetables

Exporting vegetables has become a lucrative business due to the high demand for fresh produce all around the world. However, not all vegetables grown around the world can be exported because of the long-distance travel involved from one country to another. For instance, soft vegetables like lettuce and tomato need to be air-freighted immediately upon harvesting and maybe exported only to nearby countries. This soft packaging also makes them highly perishable and likely to bruise and rot during transportation. Sturdy hard vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and squash can be exported through cargo ships as they can last several weeks and months without going bad.

Hard vegetables that can be exported through cargo ships can be categorized into two types: root and tuber vegetables and hardy fruiting vegetables. Packaging for root and tuber vegetables, such as parsnips, turnips, sweet potatoes, yams, carrots, and ginger, needs to involve bulk packaging. Many of them are exported in large bags or boxes, known as bins, with a typical net weight of about 1,000 pounds or 450 kilograms. They also need to be packaged in breathable boxes to avoid the buildup of moisture inside and the risk of spoilage during transportation. Standard pallet size for exporting root and tuber vegetables is 48 inches x 40 inches x 5 inches.

Hardy fruiting vegetables, such as squash, eggplant, sweet potatoes, chillies, or bell peppers, are usually exported in cardboard boxes. They are individually or bulk packed on pallets with a standard size of 48 inches x 40 inches x 5 inches. Squash are often exported in bulk as they need to be ginned up, which means they are packed in special containers that resemble swimming pools. Manufacturers and exporters usually try to go for varieties that are drought-resistant so they can last longer and have a longer shelf life.

Green leafy vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, and cabbage and celery, asparagus, and gourd vegetables are classified under soft vegetables. They have a shorter post-harvest life and have to be exported to near countries to ensure timely delivery.

Specifications and maintenance for vegetables for export

Specifications

• Quality: Exporting vegetables must meet high-quality standards. They need to be fresh, tasty, and in good shape. Things like size, color, texture, and flavor all matter. For example, carrots for export should be bright orange and not have any green spots.
• Shelf-life: Some vegetables can stay fresh for a long time, while others go bad quickly. Potatoes have a longer shelf life compared to leafy greens. Exporters have to pick vegetables with longer shelf lives to avoid waste during travel.
• Packaging: Vegetables for export need to be packed carefully so they don't get damaged. Packaging has to keep the veggies fresh, be easy to stack, and protect them from dirt and pests. For example, peppers might be packed in well-ventilated boxes.
• Transportation: Different vegetables require specific types of transport. Some may need refrigerated trucks to keep them cold, while others can go in regular containers. Exporters choose the right vehicle to ensure the veggies arrive fresh. A refrigerated truck is ideal for exporting vegetables like broccoli or spinach, which have a high perishability and need to be kept cool throughout the journey.

Meeting these specifications is crucial for successfully exporting vegetables and satisfying international buyers.

Maintenance

Maintaining fresh vegetables for export requires careful handling to keep them fresh and pleasing. Like a well-planned routine, it involves several steps taken regularly, with special attention given to where produce is stored, transported, and packed.

• Packaging: Quality packaging preserves the freshness of exported vegetables. Using strong, breathable containers prevents spoilage during transport. For instance, ventilated crates let air circulate around tomatoes, keeping them from getting mushy.
• Storage: Proper storage maintains the quality of vegetables for export. Each type requires different temperatures and humidity levels to stay fresh. Refrigerating broccoli at 0°C with 95% humidity prevents it from wilting. Storing carrots near 5°C and 90% humidity keeps them crisp. Adapting storage conditions based on vegetable needs reduces waste and satisfies customers.
• Transportation: Proper transport preserves vegetables for export. Using clean trucks that have the right temperature and humidity prevents spoilage. Refrigerated containers keep carrots fresh at 5 degrees Celsius. Humidity levels are also kept near 90 percent. Clean vans with proper airflow are important for Brussels sprout quality upon arrival. Taking care of the trucks used means vegetables reach their destination in good shape.

Scenarios

• International trade and market expansion:

  Countries that engage in international trade of fresh vegetables for export are always searching for lucrative markets to enter. Exporting fresh vegetables can assist businesses in discovering new markets and increasing their consumer base. For instance, business purchasers in nations with a sizable population but constrained agricultural capacity might be interested in importing fresh vegetables from nations with a productive farming sector.

• Specialized diets and food trends:

  As more people embrace vegetarian and vegan diets, the demand for fresh vegetables for export is expected to increase.in line with this. In addition, as people become more health conscious, there will be a demand for fresh vegetables that are high in nutritional foods like kale, quinoa, and other superfoods. Because these vegetables are in high demand, exported goods are in high demand.

• Seasonal supply shortages

  There may occasionally be a scarcity of fresh vegetables for export as a result of seasonal changes in various regions. This may be caused by factors like harsh weather conditions, pests and diseases, or even changes in farming practices. However, even with such supply shortages, fresh vegetable exporters can find a ready market in regions that are not affected by the shortage. For instance, during the winter months in North America and Europe, there is high demand for fresh vegetables like tomatoes, lettuce, and peppers which are predominantly grown in the southern regions of America and Europe.

• Value-added products and innovation:

  Exporting fresh vegetables can benefit from the increased demand for value-added products like frozen, canned, or processed vegetables. Businesses that export fresh vegetables are in a position to take advantage of this opportunity by investing in processing facilities or collaborating with processing companies. For instance, a recent study by the food and agricultural organization revealed that there would be a yearly increase in demand for processed and frozen vegetables.

How to choose vegetables for export

For wholesale vegetable exporters, the choice of vegetables to export is mostly influenced by market demands. However, there are a few additional factors that exporters and importers should consider when selecting vegetables for export.

• Growing Demand for Vegetables

According to business studies, the demand for fresh vegetables is on the rise worldwide. More people are becoming aware of the benefits of a healthy diet and the role of vegetables in healthy eating. This is creating a great opportunity for exporters to export high-demand vegetables and earn good profits.

• Fast Moving Market Trends

The market for export vegetables is quite competitive. Buyers are always looking for the latest available vegetable that is in high demand. Pay keen attention to fast-moving vegetable market trends and stay ahead of your competitors by supplying what customers are looking for.

• Quality of the Vegetable

Total market sales are greatly influenced by the quality of the vegetable in question. Most customers looking to purchase export vegetables will go for those that are of high quality. When selecting vegetables for export, always choose those of high quality. Ensure they meet the set international export standards.

• Customer Preference

When selecting vegetables for export, it's always a good idea to take customer preferences into account. Some customers will prefer frozen vegetables for export, while some will prefer fresh. It's important to choose what customers will go for to make a successful sale.

• Packaging

How the vegetable is packaged can determine whether or not it will be selected for export. Some packages are better suited for long-distance export and preservation of quality. Options like vacuum sealing, shrink wrap, and mesh bags are popular choices for exporting vegetables. Consider the packaging options available and select those that will keep the vegetables fresh and intact for longer.

• Export Regulations

Every country has its own rules regarding exportation. Make sure to comply with all regulations and guidelines set. This includes quality control, packaging, labeling, and phytosanitary requirements among others. Failure to abide by these rules can jeopardize the success of the exportation process.

• Cost and Profit Margin

Always analyze the cost of the vegetable and its profit margin before settling on final selection. Consider the transportation costs, packaging, and any additional fees linked with exporting. Choose vegetables that will give a reasonable profit margin when the costs are deducted.

Vegetables for export FAQ

Q1: How big is the export vegetable market?

A1: The global vegetable export market is valued at around US$26 billion and is growing steadily year on year.

Q2: What is the trend in export vegetables?

A2: The export vegetable market trend as of 2022 is a steady growth. It is expected to reach a market value of US$38.69 billion by the year 2032.

Q3: What are the main export vegetables?

A3: The main export vegetables include onion, spinach, garlic, okra, beans, and asparagus. Among these, onions occupy a dominant share of the vegetable export market.

Q4: Which countries are the largest exporters of vegetables?

A4: China is the largest exporter of vegetables, holding more than 50% of the global vegetable export market share. China is followed by the Netherlands, Spain, Mexico, and the United States.