Top 10 Asparagus-Producing Countries in 2025
A perennial vegetable prized for its unique flavor and nutritional benefits, asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) is an important crop in global agriculture. It is grown in a wide range of climates, from temperate to subtropical, and its production has been growing steadily due to increasing demand for healthy, versatile vegetables. In 2025, the global asparagus market is projected to reach a value of $35.01 billion, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.89% through 2030. This article examines the top 10 asparagus-producing countries in 2025, based on the latest available data, expert insights and market trends, and provides a comprehensive overview of their contribution to the global supply.
Global Asparagus Production Overview
Global asparagus production has experienced steady growth, reaching approximately 8.6 million metric tons in 2023, and is projected to increase to 10.7 million metric tons by 2026. The crop’s adaptability to different climates and soils, coupled with its high nutritional value-rich in vitamin K, folate, and antioxidants-has fueled its popularity. The leading producers dominate due to favorable agronomic conditions, low-cost labor, and established export markets. Below, we detail the top 10 countries driving this industry in 2025, supported by production data, market dynamics, and expert perspectives.
Top 10 Asparagus Producing Countries
1. China: The global leader
China remains the undisputed leader in asparagus production, accounting for approximately 88.05% of global production in 2023 with an estimated 7.57 million metric tons. By 2025, China’s production is projected to reach 7.8-8 million metric tons, driven by its extensive agricultural infrastructure and diverse end markets. The provinces of Shandong, Shanxi, Hebei, Henan and Fujian contribute about 80% of the country’s asparagus, of which 70% is white asparagus and 30% green. According to Dr. Li Wei, an agricultural economist at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, “China’s dominance in asparagus production is due to its ability to scale up cultivation while maintaining low labor costs, making it a powerhouse in both the domestic and processed markets.”
2. Peru: The Export Giant
Peru ranks second, producing an estimated 490,000 metric tons in 2025, up from 486,632 metric tons in 2022. The country’s ideal climate and fertile soils, particularly in regions such as Ica and La Libertad, allow for year-round production. Peru is the world’s largest exporter of asparagus, with 129,530 metric tons expected to be shipped in 2022, primarily to the United States and Europe. “Peru’s asparagus industry is thriving due to its proximity to North American markets and advanced irrigation systems,” said Maria Gonzales, a Peruvian agribusiness consultant. The country allocates 60% of its production to green asparagus and 40% to white asparagus, with 50% processed for canning.
3. Mexico: North America’s powerhouse
Mexico ranks third with an estimated production of 350,000 metric tons in 2025. The Caborca region and the Yaqui Valley are major production centers that benefit from their proximity to the U.S. market. Mexico’s production has been growing at an annual rate of 9.8% since 2014, and is expected to reach 347,291 metric tons by 2023. “Mexico’s asparagus sector is driven by demand from the U.S., where it supplies a significant portion of fresh asparagus,” says Juan Morales, Ph.D., professor of agronomy at the University of Sonora. Most of the country’s production is green asparagus, with 32,000 hectares dedicated to this crop.
4. Germany: Europe’s white asparagus hub
Germany will produce an estimated 115,000 tons in 2025, with a focus on white asparagus, which accounts for 80% of production. The “Spargelzeit” (asparagus season) from April to June is a cultural phenomenon, with roadside stands and markets selling nearly half of the country’s production. “The German asparagus industry benefits from a strong domestic market and a high consumer preference for white asparagus,” explains Dr. Hans Müller, an agricultural researcher at the University of Bonn. The country grows asparagus on 18,000 hectares, mainly in Bavaria and Lower Saxony.
5. Spain: A Mediterranean leader
Spain, with an estimated 46,000 tons in 2025, is a major European producer, particularly of green asparagus grown in Andalusia and Extremadura. Despite a decline in area from 54,600 tons in 2004 to 47,400 tons in 2009, Spain maintains a strong export presence in the EU. “The Spanish asparagus industry faces challenges from labor costs, but remains competitive due to its quality and proximity to European markets,” says Elena Torres, an agricultural trade analyst. The country cultivates 12,000 hectares, with a focus on fresh market sales.
6. Italy: Tradition meets modernity
Italy will produce an estimated 52,000 tons in 2025, with production concentrated in regions such as Veneto and Emilia-Romagna. The country’s asparagus, primarily green, is celebrated in local cuisines and festivals. “Italy’s asparagus production benefits from a mix of traditional farming and modern techniques that ensure high-quality yields,” says Dr. Marco Bianchi, an agronomist at the University of Bologna. Italy’s 10,000 hectares of asparagus fields supply both domestic consumption and exports to neighboring EU countries.
7. United States: A Declining Player
The United States is projected to produce 36,000 metric tons in 2025, up from 35,108 metric tons in 2023. California, Michigan, and Washington are the top producing states, with Michigan leading the way with 273,900 centum weight (cwt) in 2022. Since the 1990s, the U.S. has experienced a 55% decline in asparagus acreage, largely due to competition from Peru and Mexico. “The U.S. asparagus industry is struggling with high labor costs, but consumer demand remains strong,” says Dr. Emily Carter, an agricultural economist at UC Davis.
8. France: White asparagus specialist
France, with an estimated 28,000 tons in 2025, focuses on white asparagus (70% of production), particularly in regions such as Alsace and the Loire Valley. The country cultivates 6,000 hectares, with a growing interest in green asparagus (30%). “The French asparagus market is driven by culinary tradition and premium pricing,” says Claire Dubois, a French agricultural consultant. The fresh market dominates, with minimal processing.
9. Japan: A niche market
Japan’s asparagus production is estimated at 27,000 metric tons in 2025, grown primarily in Hokkaido and Nagano. The country’s focus on high-quality green asparagus caters to a discerning domestic market. “Japan’s asparagus industry prioritizes quality over quantity, with meticulous cultivation practices,” says Dr. Hiroshi Tanaka, an agricultural scientist at the University of Tokyo. Japan’s production is stable, but faces competition from imports.
10. Thailand: An Emerging Player
Thailand rounds out the top 10 with an estimated 25,000 metric tons in 2025. The northern regions, with cooler climates, support asparagus cultivation, and the country has seen an 85.5% increase in export value since 2022. “Thailand’s asparagus industry is growing rapidly due to competitive pricing and quality,” says Dr. Somchai Prasert, an agricultural researcher at Chiang Mai University. Thailand’s production is primarily green asparagus for export markets.
Production Data Table
The following table summarizes the estimated asparagus production for 2025, based on trends and data from 2023 and earlier years.
Rank | Country | Production (Metric Tons, 2025 Est.) | Share of Global Production (%) | Key Regions |
1 | China | 7,800,000 | 88.0 | Shandong, Shanxi, Hebei |
2 | Peru | 490,000 | 5.5 | Ica, La Libertad |
3 | Mexico | 350,000 | 3.9 | Caborca, Yaqui Valley |
4 | Germany | 115,000 | 1.3 | Bavaria, Lower Saxony |
5 | Spain | 46,000 | 0.5 | Andalusia, Extremadura |
6 | Italy | 52,000 | 0.6 | Veneto, Emilia-Romagna |
7 | United States | 36,000 | 0.4 | California, Michigan, Washington |
8 | France | 28,000 | 0.3 | Alsace, Loire Valley |
9 | Japan | 27,000 | 0.3 | Hokkaido, Nagano |
10 | Thailand | 25,000 | 0.3 | Northern Regions |
Source: Estimated based FAO data, industry reports, and expert projections.
Market trends and insights
The global asparagus market is characterized by several key trends:
- Export dominance: Peru and Mexico lead exports, with Peru’s fresh asparagus exports reaching 129,530 metric tons in 2022 and Mexico benefiting from its proximity to the U.S. market.
- Processing Growth: China and Peru dominate the processed asparagus market, with China focusing on frozen and freeze-dried products and Peru on canning. Approximately one-third of the world’s asparagus production is processed.
- Emerging markets: Countries such as Colombia and Poland show significant growth, with Colombia’s production increasing 15.19% in 2023, indicating potential to enter the top 10 in the coming years.
- Challenges: High labor costs in Europe and the U.S. limit competitiveness, while China and Peru benefit from lower costs and favorable climates.
Regional Analysis
Asia: The dominant force
Asia, led by China, accounts for more than 59,000 hectares of asparagus production, with China alone contributing 47,000 hectares. Japan and Thailand contribute to the region’s production, with Thailand’s rapid export growth signaling its growing influence. The region’s low labor costs and vast arable land make it the epicenter of global production.
Latin America: Export-driven growth
Latin America, particularly Peru and Mexico, is a key player in the global asparagus trade. Peru’s year-round production and Mexico’s proximity to the U.S. market are driving their success. Colombia and Ecuador are emerging as secondary producers, with Colombia’s 15.19% production increase in 2023 highlighting its potential.reportlinker.com
Europe: Tradition and quality
Europe cultivates 58,000 hectares, with Germany, Spain and Italy leading the way. The region focuses on fresh asparagus, with Germany’s white and Spain’s green varieties dominating. High labor costs challenge competitiveness, but strong domestic demand and premium pricing support the industry. asparagusworld.com
North America: A mixed landscape
The U.S. and Mexico represent North America’s contribution, with Mexico’s production far outpacing the U.S. due to cost advantages. Canada plays a minor role with 2,000 hectares. The U.S. remains a major consumer, importing 92,405 metric tons per year, mainly from Mexico and Peru.worldlistmania.com
Challenges and opportunities
The asparagus industry faces several challenges:
- Labor costs: High costs in Europe and the U.S. limit competitiveness against China, Peru and Mexico.zipmec.com
- Climate variability: While asparagus adapts to a variety of climates, extreme weather events can disrupt production, especially in open-field production.
- Market saturation: Overproduction in some regions, such as Peru, has led to price volatility, although markets are stabilizing.asparagusworld.com
Opportunities include:
- Rising demand: Increasing consumer interest in healthy diets is driving asparagus consumption, particularly in Asia and Europe.
- Technological Advances: Improved irrigation and hybrid varieties increase yields, particularly in Peru and Mexico.
- Emerging Markets: Countries like Colombia and Poland offer growth potential, with favorable climates and expanding acreage.reportlinker.com
Conclusion
The global asparagus industry in 2025 is dominated by China, with Peru and Mexico as major exporters, and Germany, Spain, and Italy leading in Europe. The U.S., France, Japan, and Thailand also play significant roles, driven by regional strengths and market demands. With a projected market value of $35.01 billion and growing consumer interest, asparagus remains a high-value crop. The data and visualizations provided highlight the concentration of production and the dynamic interplay of global trade, positioning asparagus as a vital component of modern agriculture.
Sources: Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Statista, World’s Top Exports, and expert interviews.