Mexico stands out worldwide as an exporter of agricultural and food products. This strategic industry is comprised by the agriculture, silviculture, livestock, apiculture, hunting, fishing, biotechnology, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), tobacco, candies, snacks and packaging sectors. Between 2003 and 2007 Mexico’s agricultural exports grew by an average annual rate of 12%, while imports did so by 11%. The country ranks among the main global exporters of tomatoes, avocadoes, lemons, organic coffee and aloe vera, as well as cucumber and hothouse peppers.

Mexico is the eight-largest producer of meat products worldwide. In terms of exports of processed food, in 2007 Mexico’s foreign sales totaled 351,488 million dollars. The principal buyers were Japan, the U.S. and Korea. The canned food sector is an area in constant growth in terms of exports, currently accounting for over 18.4 percent of total sales. The rate of growth in exports in this sector over the last seven years has been between 18 and 20 percent annually. Finally, over the last 30 years tequila and mescal have acquired significant international status and been granted an appellation of origin.

Thanks to the size of the territory, diversity of climates and geographical proximity to one of the largest markets in the world, the U.S., Mexico has a strategic position in terms of agricultural exports. The value of exports in this sector over 2007 was 3,660 million dollars for vegetables; 2,095 million dollars for fruit; 383 million dollars for coffee, tea and related goods; and 706 million dollars for fish, seafood and similar.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last updated: Thursday June 4th 2009 by Fernanda Luna