EU agri-food trade surplus rises to 23.9 billion euros

The European Union's trade surplus in agri-food products grew in the first half of 2026, reaching 23.9 billion euros. This represents an increase of 1.4 billion euros compared to the same period in 2025, according to a report from the European Commission.

Cumulative exports for the period of January to June 2026 totaled 117.2 billion euros, a 2% decrease from the previous year, driven by lower export values in cocoa products, pork, and olive oil. Notable increases in exports were seen in shipments to Egypt (+28%), India (+26%), and Ukraine (+12%). Conversely, exports to the United Arab Emirates fell by 25%, reflecting disruptions related to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

On the import side, cumulative values reached 93.4 billion euros, a 4% decrease from the previous year. This decline was primarily attributed to lower cocoa imports. While imports of coffee, tea, cocoa, and spices fell by 17%, imports of fruit and nuts increased by 3%.