Which Country is the Largest Producer of Apples in the World?

Top Apple Producer: China is the world’s largest apple producer. Apples are cultivated across many provinces, with Shandong, Shaanxi, and Henan leading in production. Read on to explore why apples are among the most consumed fruits worldwide, full of crunch, colour, and nutrition.

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Which Country is the Largest Producer of Apples in the World?

China is the largest producer of apples in the world. It grows over 47.5 million metric tonnes of apples annually, accounting for more than 50% of global apple output. Chinese apples are mainly grown in the temperate northern and central regions of the country. Popular varieties include Fuji, Gala, Qinguan, and Golden Delicious. China’s apples are not only eaten domestically but also exported widely to Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

How Many Apples Does China Produce?

China grows an impressive 47,573 kilotonnes (kt) of apples every year. It is by far the largest apple-producing country, with over ten times more output than the next biggest producer. China’s apples are known for their sweetness, crisp texture, and long shelf life. The apple industry in China plays a significant role in the rural economy, offering jobs to millions of farmers.

Top 5 Apple Producing Countries in The World

Note: Data reflects global agricultural reports from 2023–2024, mainly sourced from the FAO and World Population Review.

1. China

China produces more apples than the rest of the top four countries combined. The Fuji apple is the most popular variety and is known for its sweetness and crunchy texture. China also leads in technological farming methods to improve quality and increase exports.

2. Turkey

Turkey ranks second in global apple production, producing 4,818 kt of apples annually. Apples are mostly grown in the Isparta, Niğde, and Karaman regions. Turkish apple varieties like Amasya are popular both for fresh eating and juice production.

3. United States

The U.S. grows 4,429 kt of apples each year, mainly in Washington State, which contributes over 60% of the national supply. Top American apple varieties include Red Delicious, Gala, Honeycrisp, and Granny Smith. U.S. apples are exported to over 60 countries.

4. Poland

Poland produces around 4,265 kt of apples annually and is the largest apple producer in Europe. Orchards are located mostly in the Mazovia and Lublin regions. Poland is known for its sour and sweet apple varieties that are perfect for cider and juices.

5. India

India, with 2,589 kt of apple production, ranks fifth. Apples are grown mainly in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand. Popular Indian varieties include Ambri, Red Delicious, and Royal Delicious, often grown in the foothills of the Himalayas.

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Which Other Countries Have Apple Production?

Other notable apple-producing nations include Iran, Russia, Italy, France, and Chile. These countries grow a variety of apples suited to their climates and contribute significantly to the global apple trade, especially in Europe and South America.

Amazing Facts about Apples

• Over 7,500 Varieties: From crisp Fuji to tart Granny Smith, there are thousands of apple varieties grown globally.
• Apples Are Members of the Rose Family: They belong to the same plant family as roses, pears, and cherries.
• Apples Breathe: Apples continue to respire (exchange gases) even after harvesting, which is why they ripen post-picking.
• Apples Are Cloned for Consistency: Many commercial apples are grafted (not grown from seed) to ensure identical taste and appearance.
• Apples Were Once Considered Medicine: In ancient times, apples were used to treat digestive problems and boost immunity, hence the saying, ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away.’
• First Apple in Space: Apples were one of the first fruits taken into space by NASA as part of astronaut meals.

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