EU agri-food trade surplus widens on strong exports

The European Union's agri-food trade surplus widened to €4.4 billion in February 2025, as exports increased and imports decreased month-on-month, according to data from the European Commission. Agri-food exports reached €19.6 billion, a 3% rise from January and a 1.4% increase compared to February 2024. This growth was primarily driven by high prices for cocoa and coffee, which led to a 52% increase in cocoa-related products and a 19% rise in confectionery exports. Dairy exports also saw a 5% increase.

However, cereal exports experienced a significant drop of 30% due to falling volumes, and exports of preparations of fruit, nuts and vegetables, as well as olive oil, also declined. The United Kingdom remained the top destination for EU agri-food exports, with a 4% increase driven by cocoa, coffee, and protein crops.

EU agri-food imports fell by 5% from January to €15.2 billion in February 2025. Despite this monthly decrease, import values were still 15% higher than in February 2024, largely due to elevated global prices for commodities like cocoa and coffee. Imports from Côte d’Ivoire, China, Canada, and Australia saw sharp increases. Cocoa and coffee imports alone accounted for a €2.5 billion increase, while fruit and nuts added another €772 million. Imports of oilseeds and olive oil declined due to falling prices, and sugar imports decreased due to reduced volumes.