Kiwifruit, with its vibrant green or golden flesh and sweet-tart flavor, is one of the world’s most loved exotic fruits. Known for being a rich source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, kiwis are now a staple in fresh produce markets across the globe. Originally native to China, the fruit gained international fame through New Zealand’s successful rebranding and commercial cultivation.
Today, several countries cultivate kiwis on a commercial scale, contributing to a global production that surpasses 4.5 million metric tons annually. In this article, we’ll explore the top five kiwi-producing countries in the world, highlighting their production capacities, growing regions, unique varieties, and global market roles.
A Quick Look at Global Kiwi Production
Kiwifruit thrives in regions with mild winters, warm summers, and well-drained soil. The global demand for this nutritious fruit has steadily increased, leading countries from Asia, Europe, and Oceania to expand their kiwi plantations.
Here’s a snapshot of the top kiwi-producing countries as of 2024:
| Rank | Country | Annual Production (Metric Tons) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | China | 2,300,000+ |
| 2 | New Zealand | 600,000+ |
| 3 | Italy | 400,000+ |
| 4 | Greece | 310,000+ |
| 5 | Iran | 295,000+ |
Let’s explore each in detail.
1. China — The Birthplace and Largest Producer
China is not only the birthplace of kiwifruit but also the largest producer in the world. The fruit, originally known as the Chinese gooseberry, has been cultivated in the mountainous regions of China for centuries.
Key Facts:
- Annual Production: Over 2.3 million metric tons
- Primary Growing Regions: Shaanxi, Sichuan, Hunan, Guizhou, Chongqing
- Varieties: Hayward, Qinmei, Hongyang (red-fleshed)
Though China produces the majority of the world’s kiwifruit, much of it is consumed domestically, with only a small percentage exported to neighboring Asian markets and beyond. The country’s diverse climatic zones enable it to cultivate different kiwi varieties, including red and yellow-fleshed types alongside the classic green.
Interesting Fact:
China’s Hongyang kiwifruit is renowned for its attractive red center and high antioxidant content.
2. New Zealand — The Most Famous Kiwi Brand
While China produces more kiwis, New Zealand remains the most famous country associated with kiwifruit globally. In fact, it was New Zealand that renamed the Chinese gooseberry to kiwifruit in the 1950s after its national bird, the kiwi.
Key Facts:
- Annual Production: 600,000+ metric tons
- Primary Growing Regions: Bay of Plenty, Northland, Hawke’s Bay, Gisborne
- Varieties: Hayward, SunGold™, Sweet Green™
New Zealand’s Zespri™ brand is the world’s leading marketer of premium kiwifruit. The Bay of Plenty region is particularly famous for its kiwifruit orchards, known for their ideal growing conditions — rich volcanic soil, ample rainfall, and moderate temperatures.
New Zealand exports kiwis to over 50 countries, with Europe, Japan, China, and the USA being its primary markets. Zespri’s SunGold™ variety, with its smooth, hairless skin and sweet golden flesh, has become an international favorite.
3. Italy — Europe’s Kiwi King
Italy holds the title of Europe’s top kiwifruit producer and ranks third globally. The country began cultivating kiwis in the 1970s, and the crop quickly adapted well to its temperate climate, especially in regions previously used for vineyards.
Key Facts:
- Annual Production: 400,000+ metric tons
- Primary Growing Regions: Lazio (Latina), Piedmont, Emilia-Romagna, Veneto
- Varieties: Hayward, Jingold (golden variety)
Italian kiwifruit, especially from the Latina province in Lazio, is known for its large size and robust flavor. Italy exports a substantial portion of its kiwifruit to other European countries, Russia, and North Africa.
Fun Fact:
Italy is also a leader in organic kiwifruit farming, with increasing demand from health-conscious European consumers.
4. Greece — A Rising Kiwi Star
Greece has rapidly emerged as a significant player in the global kiwifruit industry. Over the last decade, Greek farmers have embraced kiwifruit cultivation, capitalizing on the country’s fertile soils and Mediterranean climate.
Key Facts:
- Annual Production: 310,000+ metric tons
- Primary Growing Regions: Central Macedonia, Kavala, Imathia, Arta
- Varieties: Hayward, Tsepelovo
Today, Greece ranks as the second-largest kiwifruit producer in Europe and fourth globally. The Greek kiwifruit season, typically from October to May, allows it to fill market gaps when New Zealand’s harvest is off-season.
Interesting Insight:
Greece exports the majority of its kiwifruit to Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and the Middle East.
5. Iran — The Middle Eastern Kiwi Leader
Iran might surprise many as one of the top kiwi producers in the world, ranking fifth globally. Kiwi cultivation in Iran began in the late 20th century, and the country’s Caspian Sea region has proven particularly suitable for kiwifruit farming.
Key Facts:
- Annual Production: 295,000+ metric tons
- Primary Growing Regions: Mazandaran, Gilan, Golestan
- Varieties: Hayward, Abbott
Iranian kiwifruit is primarily consumed domestically, though exports are steadily increasing to neighboring countries such as Russia, Iraq, and Central Asian nations.
Did You Know?
Mazandaran Province alone accounts for over 75% of Iran’s total kiwifruit production.
Honorable Mentions
While these are the top five, several other countries contribute to global kiwi production:
- Chile — Known for exporting kiwifruit during the Northern Hemisphere’s off-season.
- France — Produces high-quality organic kiwis for European markets.
- Turkey — A growing industry with increasing export potential.
- Portugal and Spain — Expanding their kiwi cultivation to meet rising EU demand.
Why Kiwi Production is Growing Globally
The surge in kiwifruit production worldwide can be attributed to:
- Health and wellness trends promoting vitamin C-rich, antioxidant-packed fruits.
- Growing demand for exotic and functional foods.
- Advances in horticultural technology and disease management.
- Strong export opportunities, particularly in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
Global Kiwi Trade and Exports
Though China produces the most kiwifruit, New Zealand remains the largest exporter, controlling around 30% of global kiwi trade through its premium Zespri™ brand.
Italy and Greece follow as significant exporters within Europe, while Iran and Chile cater to both regional and international markets. The global kiwifruit export industry is valued at over $3.5 billion annually.
Conclusion
From the misty mountains of China to the fertile orchards of New Zealand and the sun-soaked farms of Greece and Italy, kiwifruit has become a truly global crop. While China leads in production volume, it’s New Zealand that made kiwifruit famous, while Italy, Greece, and Iran have secured their spots among the top producers.
As demand for fresh, healthy, and exotic fruits continues to rise, these countries will play crucial roles in supplying the world with this nutrient-rich superfruit. Whether you enjoy a classic green kiwi or a golden SunGold™, you’re tasting the fruits of some of the world’s finest orchards.