Top 10 Sweet Potato Producing Countries in 2025
The sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), a starchy root vegetable native to the Americas, is an important crop worldwide due to its nutritional value, versatility, and resilience in diverse climates. Rich in carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes are a staple food in many regions, particularly in Asia and Africa. In 2025, global sweet potato production is estimated to reach approximately 89 million metric tons, with a slight decline from previous years due to changing agricultural practices and climate challenges. This article examines the top 10 sweet potato producing countries in 2025, delving into production statistics, growing practices, economic importance, and future trends, supported by expert insights and data visualizations.
Global context of sweet potato production
Sweet potatoes thrive in tropical and subtropical climates, requiring warm temperatures (21°C-26°C) and well-drained sandy loam soils. Their ability to grow on marginal soils with relatively low inputs makes them a critical crop for food security, especially in developing countries. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), global sweet potato production has gradually declined from a peak of 152.8 million tons in 1973 to an all-time low of 86.4 million tons in 2022. This decline is attributed to reduced acreage and changing dietary preferences, although demand for sweet potato-based products is projected to grow by 7% from 2020 to 2025.
Asia dominates global production, contributing 52.7 million metric tons in 2022, followed by Africa with 29.5 million metric tons. The Americas and Oceania lag far behind, producing 3.2 million and 0.9 million tons, respectively. The top 10 countries account for approximately 82.2% of global production, with China alone holding a 51.3% share in 2023, despite a 3.48% decline from the previous year. African countries such as Malawi and Tanzania are emerging as key players, showing positive growth rates due to improved agricultural practices and increasing demand for nutrient-rich crops.
Top 10 Sweet Potato Producing Countries in 2025
Below is a detailed analysis of the top 10 sweet potato producing countries in 2025, based on projections and trends from 2022-2023 data, as accurate 2025 statistics are not yet available. Production volumes are estimated using growth rates and historical data from FAO and other reliable sources.
1. China
Production (2025 est.) 45.5 million tons
China remains the undisputed leader in sweetpotato production, contributing an estimated 45.5 million metric tons in 2025, or about 51% of global production. Introduced during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the crop is a staple food in rural areas and an important industrial commodity. Major producing regions include Shandong, Henan and Sichuan, where advanced irrigation systems and mechanized harvesting increase yields. Popular varieties such as Shadi 601 and Shadi Purple Guijing No. 8 are valued for their high starch content and adaptability.
Sweet potatoes are a cornerstone of China’s rural economy, supporting millions of smallholder farmers while fueling industries like starch production and bioethanol, says Dr. Li Wei, an agronomist at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences.
Despite its dominance, China’s production has declined by 3.48% annually, driven by urbanization and competition from other crops. Government subsidies and research into high-yield varieties aim to stabilize output.
2. Malawi
Production (2025 est.): 8.3 million tons
Malawi ranks second, with an estimated 8.3 million tons in 2025, reflecting a 2.93% annual growth rate. Sweet potatoes are the second most important tuber crop after cassava, cultivated across 330,000 hectares. The introduction of orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, rich in vitamin A, by the International Potato Centre (CIP) has boosted production and addressed malnutrition.
The adoption of orange-fleshed varieties has transformed Malawi’s agricultural landscape, improving both food security and farmer incomes, notes Dr. Felistus Chipungu, a CIP researcher.
3. Tanzania
Production (2025 est.): 4.5 million tons
Tanzania, with an estimated 4.5 million tons, holds the third spot, driven by a 3.75% growth rate. The Lake and Eastern Zones are primary cultivation areas, growing cultivars like Suguti and Mayai. Sweet potatoes are a staple in Tanzanian diets, and government initiatives promote climate-resilient varieties to combat drought.
4. Nigeria
Production (2025 est.): 4.2 million tons
Nigeria, Africa’s second-largest producer, is projected to produce 4.2 million tons in 2025. Key states like Kaduna and Kano lead production, focusing on orange- and purple-fleshed varieties high in vitamin A and anthocyanins. Nigeria’s output has grown steadily at 1.78% annually, supported by smallholder farmers.
5. Angola
Production (2025 est.): 1.9 million tons
Angola’s sweet potato production is estimated at 1.9 million tons, with a 2.44% growth rate. The crop is a vital food source alongside maize and cassava, cultivated across 187,924 hectares. Investments in pest management and irrigation are driving growth.
6. Rwanda
Production (2025 est.): 1.4 million tons
Rwanda’s production is projected to reach 1.4 million tons, with sweet potatoes grown year-round in regions like Butare and Gitarama. Cultivars like Kwizekumwe and Mugande are popular, and Rwanda’s 5.8% growth rate reflects improved farming techniques.
7. Uganda
Production (2025 est.): 1.3 million tons
Uganda, producing an estimated 1.3 million tons, faces a slight decline (-0.4% annually). Regions like Apac and Mbale cultivate varieties such as Tanzania and New Kawogo. The crop’s resilience to poor soils makes it essential for food security.
8. India
Production (2025 est.): 1.2 million tons
India’s sweet potato production is estimated at 1.2 million tons, with major cultivation in Odisha and West Bengal. Despite a 22.9% decline in 2019, varieties like Varsha and Sree Arun ensure steady output for local markets.
9. United States
Production (2025 est.): 1.2 million tons
The U.S. is projected to produce 1.2 million tons, with a 4.48% growth rate. North Carolina, California, and Mississippi lead production, growing cultivars like Beauregard and Jewel. Sweet potatoes are a commercial crop, popular in holiday dishes and health foods.
“The U.S. sweet potato industry is thriving due to rising consumer demand for nutritious, versatile foods,” says Dr. Sarah Thompson, a horticulturist at North Carolina State University.
10. Madagascar
Production (2025 est.): 1.1 million tons
Madagascar rounds out the top 10 with an estimated 1.1 million tons. Sweet potatoes are a key food crop alongside paddy and cassava, cultivated across 137,430 hectares. Stable production supports rural livelihoods.
Sweet Potato Production by Country (2025 Estimates)
| Rank | Country | Production (Million Tons) | Share of Global Production (%) | Annual Growth Rate (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | China | 45.5 | 51.1 | -3.48 |
| 2 | Malawi | 8.3 | 9.3 | 2.93 |
| 3 | Tanzania | 4.5 | 5.1 | 3.75 |
| 4 | Nigeria | 4.2 | 4.7 | 1.78 |
| 5 | Angola | 1.9 | 2.1 | 2.44 |
| 6 | Rwanda | 1.4 | 1.6 | 5.80 |
| 7 | Uganda | 1.3 | 1.5 | -0.40 |
| 8 | India | 1.2 | 1.3 | -1.20 |
| 9 | United States | 1.2 | 1.3 | 4.48 |
| 10 | Madagascar | 1.1 | 1.2 | -0.50 |
Source: Estimates based on FAO (2022–2023) and growth trends from ReportLinker and Helgi Library.
Sweet Potato Production by Country (2025 Estimates)
Source: Estimates based on FAO (2022–2023) and growth trends from ReportLinker and Helgi Library.
Economic and Nutritional Importance
Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, especially orange-fleshed varieties that are rich in beta-carotene, which combats vitamin A deficiency. Purple-fleshed varieties high in anthocyanins are gaining popularity for their antioxidant properties. Economically, sweet potatoes support millions of smallholder farmers, particularly in Africa and Asia. In China, they are processed into noodles, starch and bioethanol, while in the U.S. they drive a multibillion-dollar commercial market.
Sweet potatoes are not just a food crop; they're an economic engine for rural communities, offering stable incomes and export potential, says Dr. Maria Gonzalez, an agricultural economist at FAO.
Challenges and future trends
Producers face challenges such as climate change, pests (e.g. weevils) and post-harvest losses due to limited storage infrastructure. In Africa, market access remains a barrier for smallholder farmers. But technological advances, such as drip irrigation in China and virus-resistant varieties in Tanzania, are boosting yields. The global sweet potato market is forecast to reach 101 million metric tons by 2035, valued at $110.7 billion, driven by demand for healthy food and sustainable crops.
Africa’s role is expected to grow, with countries such as Malawi and Tanzania taking advantage of high-yielding varieties and government support. China’s dominance may wane as its production continues to decline, creating opportunities for emerging producers.
Expert Perspective
The future of sweet potato production lies in climate-resilient varieties and sustainable farming practices. As global demand for nutrient-dense crops rises, countries investing in research and infrastructure will lead the market, says Dr. Kwame Mensah, a root crop specialist at the African Agricultural Research Institute.
Sweet Potato Production by Continent
| Continent | Production (Million Tons) | Share of Global Production (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Asia | 52.7 | 61.0 |
| Africa | 29.5 | 34.1 |
| Americas | 3.2 | 3.7 |
| Oceania | 0.9 | 1.0 |
Source: FAOSTAT, 2024
Conclusion
In 2025, China continues to dominate sweetpotato production, followed by African countries such as Malawi, Tanzania, and Nigeria, which are gaining ground through innovation and demand for nutritious crops. The U.S. and India maintain significant commercial and subsistence roles, while smaller producers such as Rwanda and Madagascar contribute to food security. As global production trends shift toward sustainability and resilience, sweet potatoes remain a critical crop for alleviating hunger, supporting economies, and adapting to climate challenges. The data and visualizations highlight the global importance of the crop and the dynamic changes in its production landscape.
Sources: FAOSTAT (2024), ReportLinker (2023), Helgi Library (2022), AtlasBig, IndexBox.
