Elderberries — tiny, dark purple fruits from the Sambucus shrub — have long held a treasured spot in traditional remedies, culinary creations, and now, modern health and wellness industries. Celebrated for their high antioxidant content, immune-boosting properties, and rich flavor, elderberries have become a highly sought-after fruit in international markets. But when it comes to large-scale trade, which country claims the title as the largest elderberry exporter in the world?
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the global elderberry market, production hotspots, export data, and future trends — and reveal which country leads the world in exporting this popular superfruit.
The Global Elderberry Trade Landscape
The elderberry market has seen remarkable growth over the last decade, driven by increasing awareness of its health benefits. Elderberries are consumed fresh, but more commonly exported in processed forms like:
- Juices
- Jams
- Syrups
- Extracts
- Dried berries
- Dietary supplements
As demand rises in the United States, Europe, and East Asia, several countries have emerged as major producers and exporters of elderberry and its by-products.
Which Country Is the Largest Elderberry Exporter in the World?
Ukraine currently stands as the world’s largest exporter of fresh elderberries, commanding the largest volume in international trade.
In 2023, Ukraine exported approximately 34,240 metric tons of fresh elderberries, valued at over USD 54 million, shipping to more than 100 countries worldwide. Despite fluctuations in harvests due to climatic conditions and geopolitical challenges, Ukraine continues to lead the global market for elderberry exports, particularly in the fresh fruit category.
Why Ukraine Leads the Global Elderberry Export Market
Several factors have contributed to Ukraine’s dominant position in elderberry exports:
1. Ideal Growing Conditions
Ukraine’s fertile soils and temperate climate, especially in western and central regions, create optimal conditions for elderberry cultivation. Many elderberries in Ukraine grow naturally in hedgerows and rural areas, while commercial plantations have expanded steadily over the past two decades.
2. Proximity to Major European Markets
Ukraine’s strategic location at the crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe enables cost-effective logistics to elderberry-consuming markets such as:
- Poland
- Germany
- Italy
- Austria
- Czech Republic
This geographic advantage allows Ukrainian exporters to deliver fresh berries quickly while preserving quality.
3. Efficient Harvesting and Export Infrastructure
Well-organized agricultural cooperatives and established fruit export companies help consolidate production, ensuring consistent quality and timely shipments to international buyers.
4. Surging Global Demand
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, elderberry products — particularly syrups and extracts known for their antiviral and immune-supporting properties — have seen a dramatic rise in demand, especially in the health-conscious markets of Europe and North America.
Where Does Ukraine Export Its Elderberries?
In 2023, Ukraine’s top elderberry export destinations included:
- Poland (29%)
- Italy (15%)
- Germany (10%)
- Czech Republic
- Austria
- Lithuania
These countries use elderberries for both fresh consumption and in processing industries for juices, jams, liqueurs, and health supplements.
Other Major Elderberry Exporters
While Ukraine dominates in fresh elderberry exports, other countries play significant roles, particularly in processed elderberry products:
Poland
Poland, a large producer of forest fruits and berries, exports both fresh and processed elderberries, mainly to neighboring European countries. While their export volumes are less than Ukraine’s, Poland has a growing market for elderberry extracts and syrups.
Germany
Germany is a major player in processed elderberry products, exporting value-added products like elderberry juice, liqueur, and herbal teas. Germany also serves as an important re-export hub for elderberries imported from Eastern Europe.
United States
The U.S. produces elderberries domestically, especially in the Midwest (Missouri and Minnesota), but also imports significant quantities for processing into supplements, juices, and nutraceuticals. While the U.S. is a key consumer market, its export of elderberries is relatively modest.
Comparative Export Data Snapshot
| Country | 2023 Export Volume | Export Value (USD) | Key Export Products | Primary Markets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ukraine | 34,240 metric tons | $54 million | Fresh berries | Poland, Italy, Germany |
| Poland | ~8,000 metric tons | $15 million | Fresh, processed (syrup, juice) | Germany, Austria, Czechia |
| Germany | 3,500+ metric tons | $10 million | Elderberry juice, syrup, extract | EU countries, U.S., Canada |
| United States | ~2,000 metric tons | $8 million | Processed supplements, syrups, extracts | Canada, Mexico, EU markets |
Emerging Trends in the Elderberry Market
Growth in Processed Elderberry Products
The global elderberry extract market alone is valued at over USD 250 million, with projections to grow at a CAGR of 8–10% over the next five years. Demand for elderberry supplements, gummies, teas, and syrups continues to surge, especially in health-conscious regions.
Organic and Sustainable Farming
As consumers increasingly prioritize clean, organic produce, elderberry producers in Europe and North America are shifting to certified organic and sustainably farmed elderberries.
Climate-Resilient Crop Potential
Elderberries are relatively hardy, tolerant of diverse climates, and suitable for low-input farming. As global climate patterns shift, elderberry cultivation is expanding into new territories like South Africa, Chile, and the Baltic states.
Increased Investment in Value-Added Processing
Countries like Poland and Ukraine are investing in facilities for juice, syrup, and extract production to capture higher-value markets.
Future Outlook
The elderberry market is set to expand rapidly as the fruit’s health benefits become more widely recognized. With its commanding lead in fresh berry exports and emerging processing sector, Ukraine is expected to retain its top exporter status, while countries like Poland, Germany, and the U.S. focus on processed product markets.
Exporters investing in organic certification, advanced processing, and sustainable practices will be best positioned to capitalize on the booming global demand for elderberry and its health-focused derivatives.
Conclusion
In the world of elderberry exports, Ukraine leads the global market, shipping more than 34,000 metric tons of fresh elderberries annually and supplying over 100 countries. This dominance is driven by its ideal growing conditions, proximity to Europe, efficient logistics, and rising global demand for immune-boosting natural products.
While other countries like Poland, Germany, and the U.S. contribute significantly — especially in processed elderberry products — Ukraine’s role as the largest exporter of fresh elderberries remains firmly established.
As health-conscious consumers worldwide continue embracing elderberry for its wellness benefits, the industry is set for sustained growth in both fresh and processed product segments.