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Global Apple Consumption by Country

Global Apple Consumption by Country

Agriculture & FoodJuly 25, 2026

Most people view apples as a simple fruit, often considered just a convenient snack. However, FAO’s 2023 data reveals that apples represent much more, reflecting patterns in population, agricultural capacity, trade, and cultural practices. We developed an infographic ranking the top 18 apple-consuming countries, and the narrative it uncovers extends well beyond the fruit itself. It illustrates how societies consume, cultivate, and distribute food across international boundaries daily.

This article systematically examines the infographic, country by country, utilizing FAO 2023 data as the primary source. We will analyze each figure in detail, recognizing that raw statistics gain meaning only through contextual comparison and real-world relevance. Additional research on apple cultivation, trade, and nutrition will be incorporated to provide a comprehensive perspective. Consider this a thorough analysis informed by extensive data review, rather than a superficial online ranking.

Why Apple Consumption Data Actually Matters

While spreadsheet data may appear impersonal, apple consumption statistics reveal significant insights about societies. These figures indicate what is cultivated locally, what is included in school meals, what is processed into juice, and what is exported for economic gain. When a nation consumes millions of tonnes of apples annually, it is the result of land resources, climate, sustained agricultural practices, and generational habits. These factors merit consideration before examining the rankings.

These data are also significant for trade and policy analysis, as apple markets influence farm income, rural employment, and international relationships between producers and buyers. Countries such as Türkiye, Poland, and China are leading apple producers, and their harvests can affect prices in regions as distant as Chattogram and Chicago. Consequently, a figure such as 36,778,000 tonnes for China represents not merely a fruit statistic but an entire agricultural economy in operation.

The Infographic at a Glance

The infographic displays the top 18 apple-consuming countries in 2023, based on FAO data. China leads by a substantial margin, with the United States as a distant second, followed by countries ranging from Türkiye to Egypt, each with progressively lower consumption figures. This distribution exemplifies a classic long-tail pattern, characterized by a dominant leader, a strong second, and a gradual decline. Industry reports corroborate China’s preeminence, indicating production exceeding 51 million metric tons and annual consumption surpassing 47 million tons. The significant disparity at the top necessitates a different perspective when interpreting the remaining data, as no other country approaches these figures.

China: The Apple Superpower

It is essential to begin with China, as its apple consumption is unparalleled. According to the FAO, China consumed 36,778,000 tonnes of apples, exceeding the combined total of the next nine countries. This dominance results from decades of orchard development in provinces such as Shaanxi, Shandong, and Gansu, supporting both substantial domestic demand and a robust export market. Reports confirm that China is the leading global producer and consumer of apples, with production surpassing 51 million metric tons and recent consumption above 47 million tons. Despite a population exceeding 1.4 billion, per capita apple consumption remains moderate, yet the aggregate total is extraordinary. This indicates that apples are a staple in daily Chinese life, comparable to rice or noodles.

China consumed 36,778,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, the highest of any nation on Earth.
China’s apple orchards are concentrated in provinces like Shaanxi, Shandong, and Gansu.
China alone accounts for more apple consumption than the next several countries combined.
China’s annual apple production has topped 51 million metric tons in recent seasons.
China’s massive population helps explain both its enormous totals and moderate per capita figures.
China exports apples internationally while still consuming the vast majority domestically.
China’s apple sector supports millions of rural farming livelihoods across multiple provinces.
China’s consumption gap over the United States exceeds 19 million tonnes in this dataset.

United States: A Distant but Powerful Second

The United States ranks second, with 16,815,000 tonnes of apples consumed in 2023. Although this figure is significantly lower than China’s, it remains substantial. The adage “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” is reflected in American consumption patterns. Washington State produces the majority of the nation’s apples, distributing varieties such as Gala, Fuji, and Honeycrisp nationwide. Apples are deeply embedded in American food culture, appearing in dishes from Thanksgiving pies to school juice boxes, which sustains consistent demand. Researchers observe that apples are among the most popular fruits globally due to their storability, transportability, and health benefits. The U.S. apple industry is further supported by effective marketing, advanced cold storage technology, and a supermarket infrastructure that ensures year-round availability. Despite having a population less than one-quarter that of China, the United States’ second-place ranking underscores the fruit’s significance in the American diet.

The United States consumed 16,815,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking second globally.
Washington State produces the majority of America’s commercial apple supply.
Popular American varieties include Gala, Fuji, Honeycrisp, and Red Delicious.
Apples remain one of the top three most produced fruits in the world.
American apple consumption spans fresh eating, juice, cider, and baked goods.
U.S. cold storage technology allows apples to stay fresh nearly year-round.
American school lunch programs frequently include whole apples as a staple snack.
The U.S. total is less than half of China’s, despite strong per-person demand.

Türkiye: The Surprising Third-Place Contender

Türkiye claims third place with 3,134,000 tonnes of apple consumption, and if that surprises you, you are not alone. We often overlook Türkiye when talking about global agriculture, but this country is genuinely one of the world’s apple powerhouses, both in growing and in eating. Turkish apple production benefits from a diverse climate that spans coastal regions and highland plateaus, giving farmers multiple growing zones suited to different apple varieties. Market intelligence reports place Türkiye among the top global apple producers, trailing only China, the European Union, and the United States in raw production volume. That production strength naturally feeds into strong domestic consumption, since apples are cheap, plentiful, and deeply embedded in Turkish cuisine and everyday snacking habits. You will find apples in Turkish markets year-round, often sold fresh at roadside stands or turned into traditional drinks and desserts. This third-place finish on your infographic reflects a country that treats apple farming as a serious economic sector, not a side crop, and the consumption numbers prove that commitment pays off at the dinner table too.

Türkiye consumed 3,134,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, placing third worldwide.
Türkiye ranks among the top four global apple producers alongside China, the EU, and the U.S.
Turkish apple orchards benefit from varied climates across coastal and highland regions.
Apples are a staple snack food in Turkish households and street markets.
Türkiye’s production strength directly supports its high domestic consumption levels.
Turkish apple exports also reach neighboring Middle Eastern and European markets.
Türkiye’s third-place ranking surprises many who underestimate its agricultural scale.
Apple-based drinks and desserts remain culturally significant across Turkish cuisine.

India: A Fast-Growing Apple Appetite

India ranks fourth, with 3,060,000 tonnes of apples consumed, reflecting both its large population and dietary shifts among a growing middle class. While Indian agriculture is traditionally associated with rice, wheat, and spices, apple orchards in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh have become increasingly significant within the national food economy. Cultivation in these Himalayan regions supports local economies, with harvests distributed to urban centers throughout India. Urbanization and rising incomes have increased demand for fresh fruit, including apples, which have shifted from a seasonal delicacy to a regular grocery staple in many households. Given India’s population exceeding 1.4 billion, even modest per capita consumption results in a substantial aggregate total, securing India’s fourth-place position. This figure is expected to rise as fruit supply chains and storage infrastructure improve.

India consumed 3,060,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking fourth globally.
Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh are India’s primary apple-growing regions.
India’s massive population drives high totals even with moderate per-person intake.
Rising middle-class incomes have boosted fresh fruit demand across Indian cities.
Apple farming supports entire mountain economies in northern India.
India’s cold storage and logistics network is expanding to meet fruit demand.
Apples have shifted from a seasonal treat to a regular grocery staple in India.
India’s apple consumption is expected to keep rising alongside urban growth.

Russia: Cold Climate, Strong Appetite

Russia ranks fifth, with 2,989,000 tonnes of apples consumed. This position aligns with the country’s large population and longstanding traditions of apple cultivation and preservation. Despite Russia’s harsh winters, apple trees are resilient, and families have historically preserved apples through pickling, drying, and juicing. Domestic apple production has expanded as Russia seeks to reduce reliance on imports. Apples play a significant role in traditional Russian cuisine, including compote and preserves that are passed down through generations. Russia continues to import apples from neighboring countries to address seasonal shortages. With a population of approximately 144 million, apples remain a consistent component of the Russian diet, even in challenging climatic conditions.

Russia consumed 2,989,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking fifth globally.
Russian households have long traditions of preserving apples through drying and pickling.
Russia has expanded domestic apple production to reduce import dependence.
Apple compote and preserves remain staples in traditional Russian cuisine.
Russia imports apples seasonally from neighboring growing regions to fill supply gaps.
Russia’s large geographic size supports diverse regional apple farming pockets.
Apple consumption in Russia remains steady despite harsh winter climates.
Russia’s population of roughly 144 million helps drive its strong national total.

United Kingdom: A Nation of Apple Traditions

The United Kingdom ranks sixth, with 1,467,000 tonnes of apples consumed, a figure rooted in a longstanding tradition of orchards and a cultural affinity for apples. British apple varieties such as Cox’s Orange Pippin and Bramley are closely associated with specific regions and culinary practices, including cider and crumbles. Counties like Kent and Herefordshire are renowned for apple production, supplying both dessert apples and cider manufacturers. The UK supplements domestic supply with imports from Europe and the Southern Hemisphere to ensure year-round availability. Apples are integral to British baking, featuring in pies, crumbles, and traditional Sunday desserts, which sustains robust demand. This consumption level places the UK ahead of larger European nations such as Germany and France, underscoring the fruit’s significance in British food culture beyond mere population size.

The United Kingdom consumed 1,467,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking sixth globally.
Kent and Herefordshire are historically significant English apple-growing counties.
British cider production relies heavily on domestic apple orchards.
Heirloom varieties like Cox’s Orange Pippin remain popular across the UK.
The UK imports apples from Europe and the Southern Hemisphere during off-seasons.
Apple pies and crumbles remain staples of traditional British baking culture.
The UK’s total surpasses larger European economies like Germany and France.
British apple consumption reflects centuries of orchard tradition rather than population size alone.

Germany: Europe’s Steady Apple Consumer

Germany ranks seventh, with 1,384,000 tonnes of apples consumed, reflecting its consistent status as a major fruit-consuming nation in Europe. Although Germany is frequently associated with beer and sausage, apples are also prominent, consumed fresh and in products such as apple wine (Apfelwein) in regions like Hesse. Orchards along the Rhine and in the Altes Land near Hamburg supply much of the domestic market, though Germany continues to import apples from neighboring countries. German consumers prioritize quality and often prefer apples produced within the European Union. Apples are commonly included in German breakfasts, school snacks, and holiday baking, particularly at Christmas markets. Germany’s stable ranking indicates a mature and stable fruit market, consistent with its position as a large, developed economy.

Germany consumed 1,384,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking seventh globally.
The Altes Land region near Hamburg is one of Germany’s largest apple-growing areas.
Apfelwein, or apple wine, remains a regional specialty in Hesse, Germany.
German consumers often favor EU-grown apples over distant imports.
Apples are common in German breakfast routines and school snack culture.
Christmas markets across Germany often feature baked apple treats and drinks.
Germany imports apples from neighboring European producers to supplement domestic supply.
Germany’s steady ranking reflects a mature, stable fruit consumption market.

Iran: A Regional Apple Giant

Iran ranks eighth, with 1,176,000 tonnes of apples consumed, highlighting the strength of its orchard sector and its significant role in Middle Eastern fruit markets. Apple orchards in provinces such as Azerbaijan and Isfahan yield substantial harvests for both domestic consumption and export. Apples are incorporated into various aspects of Iranian cuisine, including savory stews, traditional beverages, fresh consumption, and juice. The regional climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers, is well-suited for apple cultivation, similar to other leading producers. Prolonged sanctions and trade restrictions have encouraged Iran to pursue greater agricultural self-sufficiency, with apples representing a notable success. Iran’s apple consumption surpasses that of France, underscoring the fruit’s importance in daily life. This ranking affirms Iran’s status as a major, though frequently underrecognized, apple economy.

Iran consumed 1,176,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking eighth globally.
Iranian provinces like Azerbaijan and Isfahan are major apple-growing regions.
Iranian cuisine incorporates apples into both savory dishes and traditional drinks.
Iran’s climate conditions closely resemble those of other top apple-producing nations.
Trade restrictions have pushed Iran toward greater agricultural self-sufficiency over decades.
Iran’s total apple consumption exceeds that of wealthier France in this dataset.
Iran plays a significant role in Middle Eastern regional apple trade.
Iran’s apple sector remains underreported despite its considerable production scale.

France: Refined Consumption, Steady Demand

France ranks ninth, with 1,152,000 tonnes of apples consumed, consistent with its reputation for balanced, quality-oriented food culture. Although renowned for wine and cheese, apples remain a staple in the French diet, particularly in Normandy, where orchards have supported cider and Calvados production for centuries. French consumers typically favor fresh, high-quality apples sourced from local markets. France also exports significant quantities of apples throughout Europe, reflecting its dual role as both producer and consumer. Apples are featured in classic desserts such as tarte Tatin, renowned for their reliance on high-quality French fruit. France’s stable ranking reflects regular apple consumption rooted in tradition and quality, rather than sheer volume.

France consumed 1,152,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking ninth globally.
Normandy is historically significant for French apple orchards and cider production.
Calvados, a French apple brandy, has been produced in Normandy for centuries.
French consumers often favor fresh market apples over mass retail purchases.
Tarte Tatin remains one of France’s most famous apple-based desserts worldwide.
France exports apples across the European Union alongside strong domestic consumption.
French apple consumption reflects culinary tradition rather than sheer population scale.
France’s ranking places it just behind Iran despite a wealthier overall economy.

Brazil: South America’s Apple Leader

Brazil ranks tenth, with 1,072,000 tonnes of apples consumed, positioning it as South America’s leading apple consumer and a significant global participant. Although Brazil is primarily associated with crops such as soybeans and coffee, apple orchards in Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul have established a robust domestic industry. The cooler southern climate provides the necessary chill hours for apple cultivation, in contrast to Brazil’s predominantly tropical regions. Increasing numbers of Brazilians consume apples as an affordable, year-round fruit, a trend supported by expanded local production and reduced imports. Apples are widely available in both supermarkets and street markets, frequently marketed as a healthy snack. Brazil’s tenth-place ranking demonstrates how favorable regional growing conditions can enable a large country to surpass others in consumption. This represents a notable South American achievement within a ranking otherwise dominated by Asia, Europe, and North America.

Brazil consumed 1,072,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking tenth globally.
Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul are Brazil’s primary apple-growing states.
Brazil is the largest apple-consuming country in South America.
Brazil’s southern climate provides the chill hours apple trees require.
Brazilian apple production has expanded significantly over recent decades.
Apples are marketed widely in Brazil as an affordable, healthy snack.
Brazil’s domestic supply has reduced the country’s reliance on apple imports.
Brazil outranks several wealthier nations due to strong regional growing conditions.

Mexico: Growing Demand South of the Border

Mexico ranks eleventh, with 924,000 tonnes of apples consumed, reflecting a trend of increasing fruit consumption driven by population growth and evolving dietary preferences. While Mexico is traditionally associated with crops such as corn, beans, and tropical fruits, apple orchards in states like Chihuahua have established a significant presence within the national agricultural sector. The higher elevation and cooler climate of Chihuahua make it one of the few regions in Mexico suitable for commercial apple production.

Mexican consumers also import considerable quantities of apples from the United States, facilitated by geographic proximity and established trade relationships. Apples are commonly consumed in Mexican households, both fresh and in juices and traditional desserts, with supply sourced from both domestic and imported origins throughout the year. With a population of approximately 130 million, Mexico possesses a substantial consumer base, and rising incomes have contributed to increased fruit consumption in recent years. This eleventh-place ranking illustrates Mexico’s balance between modest domestic production and significant cross-border trade to maintain apple availability nationwide.

Mexico consumed 924,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking eleventh globally.
Chihuahua is Mexico’s primary commercial apple-growing state.
Mexico imports significant volumes of apples from the neighboring United States.
Mexico’s population of roughly 130 million supports strong overall consumption demand.
Rising incomes in Mexico have gradually increased fresh fruit purchasing habits.
Apples appear widely in Mexican households for fresh eating and juicing.
Mexico’s higher-elevation regions provide a suitable climate for apple cultivation.
Cross-border trade with the U.S. plays a major role in Mexico’s apple supply.

Uzbekistan: Central Asia’s Apple Stronghold

Uzbekistan ranks twelfth, with 892,000 tonnes of apples consumed, a notable achievement for a nation of approximately 35 million people. Although Central Asian agriculture receives limited global attention, Uzbekistan has emerged as one of the most apple-centric countries relative to its population size. The country’s orchards benefit from a continental climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters, particularly in regions such as the Fergana Valley, which is ideal for apple cultivation.

Apples are integral to daily life in Uzbekistan, consumed fresh, dried, and as juice. The nation’s strong agricultural tradition, including infrastructure established during the Soviet era, continues to support apple production. Per capita apple consumption in Uzbekistan rivals or exceeds that of several wealthier countries, underscoring the fruit’s cultural significance. This ranking demonstrates that factors beyond population size, such as climate and tradition, play a critical role in apple consumption.

Uzbekistan consumed 892,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking twelfth globally.
Uzbekistan’s population of roughly 35 million makes its total remarkably high per capita.
The Fergana Valley is one of Uzbekistan’s key apple-growing regions.
Uzbekistan’s continental climate provides ideal conditions for apple cultivation.
Soviet-era orchard infrastructure continues to support Uzbek apple farming today.
Apples in Uzbekistan are commonly consumed fresh, dried, and juiced.
Uzbekistan’s per-capita apple consumption rivals several wealthier nations on this list.
Uzbekistan stands out as Central Asia’s clear apple consumption leader.

Italy: Alpine Orchards Meet Mediterranean Taste

Italy ranks thirteenth, with 876,000 tonnes of apples consumed, largely attributable to the renowned apple-growing region of South Tyrol in the Alps. Although Italian cuisine is frequently associated with pasta and tomatoes, apples hold significant importance, particularly in northern Italy where the cool climate yields high-quality varieties. South Tyrol is responsible for a substantial portion of Italy’s apple production, supplying both domestic markets and exports across Europe. Italians consume apples as a healthy snack and incorporate them into traditional desserts from various regions. The apple industry benefits from rigorous quality standards, which foster consumer confidence and sustain premium pricing domestically and internationally. Apples are available year-round in Italian markets, supported by effective storage practices that preserve freshness post-harvest. Italy’s ranking reflects a relatively small population but highly favorable apple-growing conditions in the north.

Italy consumed 876,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking thirteenth globally.
South Tyrol in northern Italy is one of Europe’s premier apple-growing regions.
Italian apple orchards benefit from cool alpine climate conditions near the Austrian border.
Italy exports significant volumes of apples across the broader European Union.
Apples appear in numerous traditional Italian regional desserts and baked goods.
Italy maintains strong quality certification systems for its apple exports.
Italian storage facilities keep alpine apple harvests fresh across extended seasons.
Italy’s ranking reflects strong per-capita demand despite a smaller national population.

Pakistan: A Rising South Asian Consumer

Pakistan ranks fourteenth, with 761,000 tonnes of apples consumed, primarily sourced from orchards in the northern mountainous regions. Although Pakistan is frequently overlooked in global fruit analyses, provinces such as Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have become significant apple producers. With a population exceeding 240 million, Pakistan represents a substantial potential market, and increasing numbers of urban residents in cities like Karachi and Lahore are consuming fresh fruit.

Balochistan’s orchards benefit from cool highland climates, comparable to those in Iran and Afghanistan. Apples are commonly sold fresh in local bazaars, alongside citrus and mangoes. The sector continues to face challenges related to storage and transportation, which limit the proportion of the harvest that remains fresh. Nevertheless, Pakistan’s ranking indicates growing apple demand in one of the world’s most populous countries.

Pakistan consumed 761,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking fourteenth globally.
Balochistan is one of Pakistan’s key apple-growing provinces.
Pakistan’s population exceeds 240 million people, providing a large potential consumer base.
Urbanization in cities like Karachi and Lahore has boosted fresh fruit demand.
Pakistan’s highland apple orchards benefit from climates similar to neighboring Iran.
Cold storage and transport infrastructure remain challenges for Pakistan’s apple sector.
Apples in Pakistan are commonly sold fresh through local bazaars and fruit stalls.
Pakistan’s ranking reflects steadily growing demand despite logistical hurdles.

Morocco: North Africa’s Apple Frontrunner

Morocco ranks fifteenth, with 742,000 tonnes of apples consumed, establishing it as North Africa’s leading apple consumer. Although Morocco is typically associated with citrus and dates, the Atlas Mountains provide favorable conditions for apple orchards at higher elevations. The region surrounding Midelt in the Middle Atlas has become recognized for apple cultivation, supplying both domestic markets and exports to Europe. Rising urban incomes have led to increased fresh fruit consumption, making apples a common household item. Moroccan apples are sold in local markets alongside a variety of other fruits, reflecting the country’s agricultural diversity beyond citrus and olives. Morocco’s proximity to Europe facilitates its apple export trade and encourages continued investment in orchard expansion. This ranking affirms Morocco’s status as the foremost apple consumer in North Africa.

Morocco consumed 742,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking fifteenth globally.
The Atlas Mountains, particularly around Midelt, support Morocco’s apple orchards.
Morocco is North Africa’s leading apple-consuming nation by a wide margin.
Rising urban incomes have increased fresh fruit purchases across Moroccan households.
Moroccan apples are commonly sold in local souks alongside citrus and olives.
Morocco’s proximity to Europe supports a growing apple export trade.
Investment in Moroccan orchard expansion continues to rise steadily.
Morocco’s ranking places it ahead of every other North African country on this list.

Canada: A Northern Neighbor’s Steady Habit

Canada ranks sixteenth, with 716,000 tonnes of apples consumed, reflecting a consistent and culturally embedded apple consumption pattern despite a relatively small population. Although Canada is often associated with maple syrup, apple orchards in Ontario, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia have established a strong tradition of apple production. Canadians benefit from trade with the United States, importing apples when domestic supply is insufficient. Apple picking is a popular autumn activity for families nationwide. Apples are also prominent in Canadian baking, particularly in pies and ciders produced in both eastern and western regions. With a population of approximately 40 million, Canada’s per capita apple consumption is high relative to some larger countries. This ranking demonstrates that apples are a favored seasonal and year-round food, deeply integrated into Canadian culture.

Canada consumed 716,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking sixteenth globally.
Ontario, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia are Canada’s key apple-growing provinces.
Canada supplements domestic apple harvests with imports from the United States.
Autumn apple picking remains a popular family tradition across Canadian provinces.
Canadian apple cider production spans both eastern and western growing regions.
Canada’s population of around 40 million supports strong per-capita apple demand.
Apple pies remain a staple of Canadian baking and holiday traditions.
Canada’s ranking outpaces several nations with considerably larger populations.

Poland: Europe’s Apple Export Engine

Poland ranks seventeenth, with 704,000 tonnes of apples consumed, though this figure represents only one aspect of its apple sector. Poland is among the largest apple producers and exporters in the European Union. The majority of orchards are located in the Grójec region south of Warsaw, generating substantial yields for both domestic consumption and export. Apple farming has expanded significantly in recent decades, positioning Poland as a key participant in the EU fruit industry.

While Polish households regularly consume apples, juice, and preserves, the majority of the harvest is exported rather than consumed domestically. Poland’s export sector has encountered challenges due to shifting trade relationships with Russia and other countries, prompting producers to seek new markets in Western Europe and Asia. The consumption ranking alone only partially reflects the centrality of apples to Poland’s agricultural identity.

Poland consumed 704,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking seventeenth globally.
The Grójec region south of Warsaw is one of Europe’s largest apple-growing areas.
Poland ranks among the top apple producers and exporters in the entire European Union.
Polish households regularly consume fresh apples alongside juices and preserves.
Poland’s production capacity far exceeds its domestic consumption levels.
Shifting trade relationships have pushed Polish farmers to diversify export markets.
Poland’s apple sector remains a cornerstone of the country’s agricultural economy.
Poland’s export volume dwarfs its consumption figure shown in this ranking.

Egypt: Closing Out the Top 18

Egypt ranks eighteenth, with 651,000 tonnes of apples consumed, concluding this global ranking. Despite its predominantly desert landscape, irrigated agriculture and imports from Europe and neighboring regions have integrated apples into the Egyptian diet. With a population exceeding 110 million, Egypt possesses a substantial consumer base, and urban centers such as Cairo and Alexandria generate strong year-round demand for imported fruit. Domestic apple production remains limited, necessitating reliance on imports to satisfy consumption needs. Apples are widely available in markets, often sold alongside citrus and other fruits better suited to the arid climate. As incomes rise and trade networks expand, apple consumption in Egypt has increased. Even in eighteenth place, Egypt’s total represents a considerable volume for one of the Middle East’s largest nations.

Egypt consumed 651,000 tonnes of apples in 2023, ranking eighteenth globally.
Egypt’s population exceeds 110 million, providing a substantial consumer base.
Cairo and Alexandria drive much of Egypt’s demand for imported fresh fruit.
Domestic apple production in Egypt remains limited due to arid climate conditions.
Egypt relies heavily on apple imports from Europe and neighboring regions.
Rising disposable incomes have steadily increased Egyptian apple consumption.
Apples are sold widely across Egyptian markets alongside citrus fruits.
Egypt’s total still represents significant fruit demand despite its bottom-18 position.

What This Ranking Really Tells Us

Examining the complete list reveals a compelling pattern. While population size is a significant factor, it does not fully explain the rankings. Countries such as Uzbekistan and Morocco exceed expectations relative to their demographic size, whereas nations with larger populations, like Pakistan and Egypt, rank lower than anticipated. Climate and growing conditions are equally influential, accounting for the strong performance of countries such as Türkiye, Poland, and Italy relative to their population. Trade relationships and import dependency further shape the landscape, as countries like the United Kingdom and Canada rely on international supply chains to maintain year-round apple availability despite limited domestic growing seasons. This analysis underscores the importance of contextualizing raw rankings, as the underlying factors behind each figure provide a more nuanced and informative narrative.

A consistent nutritional theme emerges throughout the data, as apples are among the most nutrient-dense, low-calorie fruits, rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants that promote cardiovascular health and digestion. This nutritional profile contributes to the sustained demand for apples across diverse cultures and climates, from the cold winters of Russia to the arid cities of Egypt. Health researchers frequently highlight apples as an accessible and cost-effective means to increase fiber intake and support heart health, which likely underpins stable consumer demand in every country represented. Regardless of whether apples are consumed in large quantities in China or imported to meet demand in Egypt, their fundamental appeal remains consistent worldwide.

Final Thoughts on the World’s Apple Appetite

This in-depth analysis began as a straightforward examination of fruit rankings but ultimately yielded valuable insights into global agriculture, trade, and culture. Each figure in the infographic reflects millions of individual decisions made in households, schools, and markets across eighteen countries. The analysis provides a clearer understanding not only of which nations consume the most apples, but also the underlying reasons for these patterns. This context transforms raw statistics into a compelling narrative. The FAO 2023 dataset demonstrates that even a common fruit such as the apple embodies a complex and global story behind every tonne consumed.

Here is the full list of global apple consumption by country:

Rank	Country	Apple Consumption (tonnes)
1	China	36,778,000
2	United States	16,815,000
3	Türkiye	3,134,000
4	India	3,060,000
5	Russia	2,989,000
6	United Kingdom	1,467,000
7	Germany	1,384,000
8	Iran	1,176,000
9	France	1,152,000
10	Brazil	1,072,000
11	Mexico	924,000
12	Uzbekistan	892,000
13	Italy	876,000
14	Pakistan	761,000
15	Morocco	742,000
16	Canada	716,000
17	Poland	704,000
18	Egypt	651,000
19	Ukraine	565,000
20	Romania	555,000
21	Algeria	538,000
22	Australia	506,000
23	Netherlands	498,000
24	South Africa	464,000
25	Chile	449,000
26	Spain	375,000
27	Hungary	365,000
28	Kazakhstan	342,000
29	Iraq	321,000
30	Afghanistan	297,000
31	Argentina	268,000
32	Portugal	251,000
33	Syria	248,000
34	Saudi Arabia	247,000
35	Austria	224,000
36	Viet Nam	213,000
37	China, Taiwan Province of	196,000
38	South Korea	185,000
39	Sweden	179,000
40	UAE	177,000
41	Bosnia and Herzegovina	171,000
42	Azerbaijan	169,000
43	Czechia	162,000
44	Bangladesh	149,000
45	Serbia	149,000
46	Denmark	145,000
47	Norway	135,000
48	Peru	135,000
49	Belarus	133,000
50	Nepal	132,000
51	Indonesia	128,000
52	Belgium	127,000
53	Tunisia	120,000
54	Switzerland	115,000
55	Colombia	113,000
56	New Zealand	112,000
57	Malaysia	111,000
58	Hong Kong SAR	103,000
59	Philippines	101,000
60	Albania	99,000
61	Thailand	99,000
62	Kyrgyzstan	94,000
63	Finland	91,000
64	Lebanon	81,000
65	Greece	77,000
66	Nicaragua	68,000
67	Ecuador	63,000
68	Croatia	62,000
69	Nigeria	58,000
70	Libya	50,000
71	Honduras	49,000
72	Panama	49,000
73	Turkmenistan	47,000
74	El Salvador	46,000
75	Jordan	46,000
76	Uruguay	46,000
77	Ireland	45,000
78	Bulgaria	43,000
79	Kuwait	43,000
80	Slovenia	43,000
81	Dominican Republic	42,000
82	Yemen	42,000
83	Israel	39,000
84	Slovakia	36,000
85	Tajikistan	35,000
86	Armenia	34,000
87	Namibia	34,000
88	Guatemala	29,000
89	Mongolia	28,000
90	Republic of Moldova	28,000
91	Oman	26,000
92	Bolivia (Plurinational State of)	24,000
93	Botswana	22,000
94	Maldives	22,000
95	Qatar	22,000
96	Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)	22,000
97	Cyprus	19,000
98	Estonia	19,000
99	Ghana	19,000
100	Zimbabwe	19,000
101	Bahrain	17,000
102	Latvia	17,000
103	Kenya	16,000
104	Luxembourg	16,000
105	Senegal	15,000
106	Zambia	15,000
107	Côte d'Ivoire	14,000
108	Georgia	13,000
109	Jamaica	13,000
110	Myanmar	13,000
111	Mauritius	12,000
112	Cameroon	11,000
113	Iceland	11,000
114	Paraguay	11,000
115	Angola	10,000
116	Trinidad and Tobago	10,000
117	Fiji	8,000
118	Mauritania	8,000
119	Uganda	8,000
120	Bahamas	7,000
121	Cambodia	7,000
122	Costa Rica	7,000
123	Democratic Republic of the Congo	7,000
124	Guinea	7,000
125	Lao People's Democratic Republic	7,000
126	Madagascar	7,000
127	Montenegro	7,000
128	North Macedonia	7,000
129	Cabo Verde	6,000
130	Eswatini	6,000
131	Lithuania	6,000
132	Sri Lanka	6,000
133	United Republic of Tanzania	6,000
134	Malta	5,000
135	Mozambique	5,000
136	Burkina Faso	4,000
137	Lesotho	4,000
138	Malawi	4,000
139	Saint Lucia	4,000
140	Comoros	3,000
141	Ethiopia	3,000
142	French Polynesia	3,000
143	Gabon	3,000
144	New Caledonia	3,000
145	Papua New Guinea	3,000
146	Saint Kitts and Nevis	3,000
147	Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	3,000
148	Antigua and Barbuda	2,000
149	Barbados	2,000
150	Bhutan	2,000
151	China, Macao SAR	2,000
152	Congo	2,000
153	Gambia	2,000
154	Guyana	2,000
155	Belize	1,000
156	Djibouti	1,000
157	Grenada	1,000
158	Guinea-Bissau	1,000
159	Haiti	1,000
160	Liberia	1,000
161	Rwanda	1,000
162	Samoa	1,000
163	Seychelles	1,000
164	Sierra Leone	1,000
165	Timor-Leste	1,000
166	Vanuatu	1,000

Data Source:

All consumption figures referenced throughout this article, including every country ranking in the top 18, come from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, 2023 dataset, as compiled in the infographic ‘Global Apple Consumption by Country 2023.’ Supplementary context on production, trade, and nutrition was drawn from independent agricultural and health research cited inline throughout the piece.