EU Agri-Food Trade Surplus Hits €19.4 Billion as Exports Slow

The European Union's agri-food trade surplus has increased by approximately €1 billion over the past year, reaching €19.4 billion between January and May 2026. According to a report from the European Commission, this is despite a 3% decrease in cumulative exports compared to the same period in 2025.

The decline in export values was mainly due to falls in the value of cocoa-based products, pork, and olive oil. Olive oil exports were affected by both lower prices and volumes. The main destination for EU agri-food exports, the United Kingdom, saw a 3% decrease (-€782 million) in exports, largely driven by declines in pork, cocoa products, cereals, and dairy products.

However, some countries showed significant increases in imports. Egypt's exports rose by 36% (+€289 million), mainly due to higher wheat exports, while Ukraine saw a €187 million (+11%) increase, driven primarily by sales of alcoholic beverages. Exports of nuts are also on the rise, worth €223 million (+8%), thanks to increased exports of apples, kiwis, and raspberries.

The report highlights that although imports have fallen in some areas, those from Argentina rose by 10% (+€220 million), mainly due to higher sunflower seed imports. Imports from Vietnam also increased by 9% (+€213 million), driven by higher volumes of coffee. Meanwhile, imports of nuts and dried fruit rose by €465 million (+4%), while those of beef and veal increased by €330 million (+28%).