Poland is the pumpkin leader in the EU. Who buys Polish vegetables? Here are the main countries
Together with France, Spain, Germany and Portugal, Poland is one of the leading pumpkin producers in Europe, jointly responsible for 86%. EU production – according to data from the Analysis and Strategy Office of the National Center for Agricultural Support (KOWR).
Pumpkin production in the European Union has been showing an increasing trend for several years. In 2024, the harvest reached over 1.2 million tons, which means an increase of 9%. compared to the previous year. At that time, Poland recorded significant development of crops. According to Eurostat data, the area of pumpkin sowing in the country increased from 1.1 thousand hectares in 2014 to 9.3 thousand hectares in 2024 As the area increased, the harvest also increased – from 48 thousand tons in 2014 to 400 thousand tons in 2022. Although in 2023 production decreased to 358 thousand tons, in the following year it increased again, reaching over 380 thousand. tone.
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Who buys Polish pumpkins?
Despite impressive production results, Polish pumpkin exports remain relatively low — is only 3-4 thousand. tons per year, which is approximately 1%. domestic production. The main export directions are:
- Italy (25% of total volume),
- Germany (20 percent),
- Slovakia (15%),
- Czech Republic (10%).
In turn, pumpkin imports to Poland range from 2-3 thousand. tons per year, and vegetables are imported mainly from the Netherlands, Germany and Spain.
The dynamic increase in pumpkin production in Poland results from the growing consumer demand, but also from the ease of its cultivation. Pumpkin does not require high-quality soil or large chemical inputs, and its long storage period allows it to be sold in the late autumn and early winter months.
Peak pumpkin season
Two main varieties dominate in Polish fields: pumpkin, known, among others, as pasta, and giant pumpkin, including the popular Hokkaido and butternut squash. There are currently over 30 different varieties of this vegetable in the National Register of Varieties. Pumpkin harvesting usually begins at the end of August and lasts until the end of October. It's currently peak season, and pumpkins are available both at markets and supermarkets. Prices range from PLN 2 to PLN 3.5 per kilogram on the wholesale market in Bronisze, while in retail stores they cost approximately PLN 5 per kilogram.
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