5 Largest Food Importing Countries in the World

Annual Value of food imports in 2021 (USD Billions): 86.6

Annual Volume of food imports (Million Tons): 22.1

The United States is world’s largest economy and third-largest population. However, it is also a major food importer, with imports reaching $196 billion in 2022. This is due to several factors, including diversity of the US population, climate, and cost of production. Its demand for a wide range of food products, from fresh produce to specialty ingredients, has made it a key player in the international food trade. This position reflects the country’s rich multicultural heritage and underscores its role as a global hub for food consumption and distribution, driving economic opportunities and culinary diversity. The US imports about 15% of its food calories. The US imports food from the top five countries: Mexico, Canada, China, Brazil, and the Netherlands.

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