[Italy] Latest data and top graphs on production volume of leafy stems and fruit vegetables

Abstract

In Italy, vegetable production has seen notable trends, with lettuce consistently leading in production, reaching 638kt in 2022. Other key vegetables include tomatoes, which have significant land use, and potatoes, which have seen fluctuating yields due to varying climatic conditions. Over the years, there has been a growing focus on optimizing land use for high-yield crops like lettuce and tomatoes. Tomato production, in particular, is divided into fresh and processed uses, with processed tomatoes being a major export product, highlighting Italy’s strong agricultural sector’s adaptation to both domestic and international markets.

Production (by vegetables)

Italy’s vegetable production has seen fluctuations over the decades, with lettuce reaching its peak of 1.01Mt in 2005. Currently, lettuce production stands at 63.2% of this peak, reflecting a decline in its dominance within Italy’s agricultural landscape. While lettuce remains a major crop, other vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and potatoes have gained prominence. The decline in lettuce production may be attributed to changing market demands, climate conditions, and a shift towards more diverse vegetable crops, marking a transition in Italy’s vegetable farming practices toward greater variety and sustainability.

The maximum is 7.68Mt[2004] of Production volume, and the current value is about 79.9%

Yield(by vegetable)

Italy’s tomato production has seen steady growth, with its peak yield of 65.1t/ha recorded in 2021, currently at 96.6% of that level. This reflects the country’s long-standing expertise in tomato cultivation, driven by favorable climate conditions and advanced agricultural practices. Over the years, tomatoes have become a cornerstone of Italy’s vegetable production, especially for processing. The high yield and consistency in production are indicative of Italy’s dominance in both the fresh and processed tomato markets, catering to domestic consumption and strong export demand, particularly for sauces and canned products.

The maximum is 65.1t/ha[2021] of Tomato, and the current value is about 96.6%

Land use (by vegetables)

In 2022, Italy’s vegetable production reached a stable total of 6.14Mt, matching the peak production level, reflecting a consistent use of agricultural land for vegetable cultivation. This uniformity suggests an efficient balance between land use and yield across various crops, with key vegetables like tomatoes, lettuce, and onions occupying significant portions. Over the years, Italy’s vegetable farming has adapted to evolving market demands, optimizing land for high-value crops while maintaining sustainability. This stability in production highlights Italy’s capacity to meet both domestic needs and international export demands.

The maximum is 6.14Mt of Production volume, the average is 6.14Mt, and the total is 6.14Mt

Tomato usage

Since 1961, Italy’s tomato production has reached its highest point, with the maximum recorded at 7.68Mt, reflecting the country’s strong focus on tomatoes as a key agricultural product. Over the years, Italy has become a global leader in tomato production, with a significant portion dedicated to processing for sauces, canned tomatoes, and paste. The dominance of tomatoes in Italy’s vegetable sector highlights the strategic use of land and resources, supported by advanced cultivation techniques and favorable climate. This trend shows Italy’s continued success in meeting both domestic demand and international market needs.

The maximum is 7.68Mt[2004] of Production volume, and the current value is about 79.9%

Main data