China intensifies competition in EU ginger market, squeezing out Peruvian suppliers

China is increasing ginger shipments to the European market, intensifying price competition and making exports more challenging for Peruvian producers. According to Mundus Agri, Chinese ginger exports to Europe more than doubled in March–May 2026 compared with the same period last year. Meanwhile, prices for Chinese ginger have fallen by almost half compared with 2025 levels. Additional pressure on Peruvian exporters comes from new EU phytosanitary requirements, which have restricted access for some products to the European market.

According to Fresh Fruit Perú, Peru’s ginger exports could increase by 5% in 2026 to 61.54 thsd tons, although their value is expected to decline by 5% to $101 mln. The average export price is projected to fall from $1.81 to $1.64/kg. In January–September, the country exported 43.33 thsd tons of ginger worth $72 mln, representing a 10% increase in volume but a 3% decline in value. Following a strong first half of the year, shipments fell by 9% in the third quarter to 16.25 thsd tons.

Peru’s situation has been complicated by the EU’s introduction of certification requirements from April 2026 confirming that ginger is free from the Ralstonia bacterium. Difficulties in meeting the new rules have caused Peruvian exporters to lose part of their European market share and redirect shipments to the US. During the first nine months of the year, the US imported 24.55 thsd tons of Peruvian ginger, up 16% year on year, while the value of imports declined by 4% to $41 mln. Meanwhile, the Netherlands reduced purchases from Peru by 6% to 8.28 thsd tons, with their value falling by 12% to $13 mln.

Competition is also intensifying in the crushed and ground ginger segment. According to EU customs statistics, imports of these products increased by 9.3% between January 1 and October 25, 2026, reaching 7.57 thsd tons worth almost €23 mln. China remained the largest supplier, increasing shipments by 17.8% to 5.14 thsd tons. India boosted exports by 42.8% to 987 tons, while imports from Peru declined by 14% to 154 tons. Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium were the largest importers among EU member states. The average import price fell by more than 4% to €3.04/kg.

Amid growing competition, Peruvian producers expect demand in North America to recover during the winter season. According to Fresh Fruit Perú, ginger demand strengthened in October and could remain high until February 2027. However, stabilizing exports will require Peru to fully restore access to the EU market and reduce its dependence on US buyers. The expected reduction in ginger plantings in Peru in 2027 could also help limit supply and support a recovery in export prices.

Tags: ginger, China, EU, Peru