U.S. Fresh Vegetable Exports Down in FY 1996, But Prospects for FY 1997 are More Favorable

摘要

U.S. fresh vegetable exports (including potatoes) in fiscal year 1996 were valued at 979 million dollar, the third largest export value in history, but down 14 percent from the record in FY 1995. Although the value of vegetable exports was down considerably because of lower unit values, and a recovery in Japanese and Korean production, the volume of exports dropped only 3 percent for the previous year, Canada was once again the top market for U.S. vegetable exports, followed by Japan, Mexico, EU-15 and other Asian countries. Lettuce, tomatoes, onions, broccoli, asparagus, bell peppers, celery and cauliflower topped the list for all U.S. vegetable exports. As consumer incomes rise and modern supermarkets appear in emerging -markets, particularly in Asia, opportunities for other types of vegetable products such as pre-cut vegetables likely will appear. The potential for expanding U,S, sales of tomatoes, peppers and eggplants into Japan appears possible as both governments work to overcome existing trade barriers.