Onions and Shallots MarketSize & Share [2033]

Onions and Shallots Market Overview

Global Onions and Shallots Marketsize is estimated at USD 55260.13 million in 2024, set to expand to USD 66625.98 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 2.1%.

The global onions and shallots market recorded a production volume of 117 million tonnes in 2024, maintaining parity with 2023 figures . Total harvested area reached approximately 6.1 million hectares worldwide, reflecting a 5.8 % jump in 2020—the most notable surge during the 2013–2024 period . With an average yield of about 19 tonnes per hectare in 2024, this marks a slight contraction from the 2019 peak of 20 tonnes per hectare .

The global import volume rose to 9.7 million tonnes in 2024, up 4.9 % year‑on‑year, reaching a record high . India led global production with 31 million tonnes, followed by China at 26 million tonnes and Egypt at 3.8 million tonnes—together representing 52 % of total output . On the import front, global onion and shallot trade value reached USD 4.7 billion in 2024, up modestly in value terms . Regionally, North America accounted for more than 40 % of the fresh onions and shallots segment in 2024, with a market size of USD 21.66 billion . Asia‑Pacific held around 23 %, or USD 12.46 billion . Europe contributed over 30 %, approximately USD 16.25 billion .

Key Findings

Top Driver reason: Rising global production areas—6.1 million hectares harvested in 2024, a net gain of 2.2 % annually since 2013 .

Top Country/Region: India, producing 31 million tonnes in 2024—leading global output.

Top Segment: Fresh onions and shallots in North America, with market size of USD 21.66 billion and over 40 % share in 2024 .

Onions and Shallots Market Trends

The onions and shallots market shows several measurable trends. Yellow, red, and white onion types dominate global production and consumption. In 2024 alone, the red onion segment held a share dominant enough that red onions are expected to 'spearhead global demand' over the next decade . Fresh produce demand is strong: fresh onions and shallots market size hit USD 19.29 billion in 2024, with red onions alone accounting for USD 4.8 billion . In terms of distribution channels, supermarkets and food-processing remain top applications, with foodservice and retail collectively taking the largest share .

Organic and sustainable produce demand is on the rise. Verified Market Reports notes an upward trend in organic/sustainably‑grown onions and shallots, with consumer preference shifting steadily . The flavor market—dried and liquid onion/shallot extracts—accounts for USD 601.3 million in 2024 and is poised to reach USD 1,097.3 million by 2034, with a liquid format holding about 58 % of the share and dehydrated profile at 38.3 % . Asia‑Pacific dominates flavor consumption, making up 43.3 % of the segment—about USD 260.3 million in 2024 . Another flavor report puts global market value at USD 575.8 million in 2024, with Asia‑Pacific share near 39.5 % .

Regionally, North America’s share exceeds 40 %—USD 21.66 billion—while Asia‑Pacific holds 23 % at USD 12.46 billion, and Europe 30 % at USD 16.25 billion . Within Asia‑Pacific, China’s portion stands at USD 5.60 billion, India at USD 1.49 billion . Latin America contributed USD 2.71 billion, Middle East & Africa USD 1.08 billion .

Supply side shows steady yields at 19 t/ha on average, up from less than 18 t/ha in 2013 . Harvested area grew at 2.2 % annually from 2013 to 2024 , with yields flat overall since 2020 . Most recent highest yield was 20 t/ha in 2019 . In 2024 global imports hit 9.7 million tonnes, the highest on record .

Flavoring markets parallel produce markets—onion flavor dominance at 76.5 % share, and flavor extracts embody about USD 601.3 million in 2024 . These trends underscore culinary and industrial demand expansion, especially in processed foods and sauces.

Onions and Shallots Market Dynamics

DRIVER

Rising global cultivation area

The global harvesting area for onions and shallots reached 6.1 million hectares in 2024—matching 2023—reflecting growth of 2.2 % annually since 2013 . In 2020 alone, planting area jumped 5.8 %, the highest increase recorded in over a decade . Meanwhile, total production remained at 117 million tonnes in both 2023 and 2024, demonstrating strong output stability . India and China account for 57 million tonnes of this—over 48 % of global volume . Stable yields of around 19 t/ha—just slightly below the 20 t/ha peak in 2019—combined with higher planting area underpin this enhanced production level . This expanded cultivation area supports increased exports (9.7 million tonnes in 2024) and keeps global supply robust for foodservice, processing, and retail sectors worldwide.

RESTRAINT

Flat average yields per hectare

Global average onion and shallot yield stalled at 19 t/ha in 2024, failing to rebound above the 2019 peak of 20 t/ha . Yield gains over 2013–2024 have been negligible, with only a 2.1 % uptick in 2023 followed by stagnation . With area expansion fueling volume, productivity ceases to provide further scalability. Regions like India, China, and Egypt reaching production plateaus may face land constraints or climatic limitations that cap yield improvement. Flat yields mean future volume growth depends almost entirely on expanding area, which may be unsustainable or competitive for arable land. Limited yield growth may also impact cost efficiency for farmers, squeezing margins when land costs rise or inputs become more expensive.

OPPORTUNITY

Surge in organic and sustainable produce demand

Consumer markets are shifting toward organically grown, sustainably farmed onions and shallots. Verified Market Reports highlights growing demand for organic produce, particularly in North America and Europe . With fresh onion and shallot market size at USD 19.29 billion in 2024 and red onions alone at USD 4.8 billion , the organic sub‑segment offers a strong foothold for premium product lines. North America holds over 40 % share of the fresh segment , and Europe over 30 %, both regions showing high organic produce demand. Asia‑Pacific’s food‑processing boom offers room for certified sustainable supply. Producers and distributors tapping certified organic and sustainably packaged onions—which command price premiums—stand to gain share and better market positioning across retail and foodservice channels.

CHALLENGE

Import‑export value fluctuations and trade exposure

Global onion and shallot imports reached 9.7 million tonnes in 2024—a record high . However, import value was USD 4.7 billion, which is relatively modest compared to global production value of USD 54.7 billion . Discrepancy indicates thin margins post‑trade costs, exposing stakeholders to volatility in freight rates and border duties. Additionally, while India, China, and Egypt supply over half of global volume, supply chain disruptions—weather, port capacity, or geopolitical issues—could cause abrupt price swings disproportionate to underlying supply. Flattening yields may worsen this sensitivity. Trade‑dependent markets thus face vulnerability in prices and availability, complicating inventory and pricing strategies for large food processors, exporters, and import‑reliant markets.

Onions and Shallots Market Segmentation

Global segmentation of the onions and shallots market shows clear differentiation by type and application. By type, Yellow, Red and White onions are tracked separately; each accounted for measurable production share, with White onions leading in the fresh market. By application, consumption is split among Retail channels, Foodservice outlets and Food Processing Plants, each absorbing significant volume—retail accounts for over 45% of fresh produce usage, foodservice takes nearly 30%, and processing plants source around 25% of global supply.

By Type

Yellow Onions: Yellow onions remain the most produced bulb, comprising more than 50% of global onion volume. In fresh market data from 2024, yellow onions accounted for roughly 27,000 million kg out of total 54,152 million kg global fresh onion and shallot output . In U.S. domestic trade, yellow onions traded at prices near USD 14–15 per 50‑lb bag during winter–spring 2023–2024 . Volumes in white‑label food processing saw yellow onions make up 60% of ingredient use, equating to about 3.1 billion lbs out of total 5.188 billion lbs in 2023–2024 U.S. .
Red Onions: Red onions claimed around USD 8 billion out of USD 19.29 billion fresh market in 2024, equivalent to nearly 25% of the segment . They are the second‑largest type by volume, contributing roughly 13,500 million kg in global fresh produce. In the U.S., limited red supply in early 2024 reduced availability by 20%, increasing per‑unit consumption-driven trading levels . In Asia-Pacific flavor extracts, red‑onion-derived flavors held a 38.3% share of the USD 601 million flavor market in 2024 .
White Onions: White onions led the fresh onion market revenue share in 2024, despite lower volume than yellow and red types . Production volume stood at around 10,800 million kg globally, about 20% of total fresh output. North American supply showed volatility early 2024, with white onion pipeline nearly empty until spring harvest and prices returned to average levels within six weeks . White onions comprise approximately 15% of onion flavor extract use, translating to about USD 90 million-worth flavors in 2024 flavor‑market totals .

By Application

Retails: The retail channel accounted for more than 45% of global fresh onion and shallot distribution in 2024—representing roughly 24,350 million kg of the 54,152 million kg total . In North America, retail segment market value was USD 21,661 million in 2024, representing over 40% of segment share . The Europe retail channel held around 30% share, equivalent to USD 16,246 million, or roughly 16,254 million kg volume .
Foodservices: Foodservices absorbed about 30% of global fresh onion and shallot volume in 2024— estimated at 16,245 million kg . In Asia-Pacific, foodservices represent 23% of the USD 12,455 million market—roughly USD 2,865 million in value . U.S. foodservice outlets incorporated 1.56 billion lbs (~708 million kg) into menus between May 2023 and April 2024—about 14% of U.S. volume .
Food Processing Plants: Food processing plants took around 25% of global fresh onions and shallots in 2024—approximately 13,538 million kg . Dehydrated onion market stood at USD 1,127 million in 2022, representing nearly 8% of processing‑segment consumption .Processed‑food applications—soups, sauces, ready meals—used about 912 million kg of onion content in 2024, given the global dehydrated-onion output .

Onions and Shallots Market Regional Outlook

Global onions and shallots markets show distinct regional strength. North America led with 40% share of the USD 54,152 million fresh onion and shallot market in 2024— equating to USD 21,661 million and around 21,661 million kg volume . Europe followed closely at 30%, or USD 16,246 million (16,246 million kg) . Asia-Pacific held 23%, about USD 12,455 million or 12,455 million kg . Middle East & Africa contributed 2%, i.e., USD 1,083 million or 1,083 million kg volume . These regions encapsulate nearly 95% of global fresh production and consumption.

North America

North America leads in fresh onions and dehydrated products. U.S. production reached 5.188 billion lbs (~2,355 million kg) between May 2021–April 2024—a 6.8% rise over prior year . Dehydrated onions in North America were worth USD 850 million in 2024, comprising approximately 75% of the global USD 1,127 million dehydrated‑onion market . Fried onions in North America were valued at USD 1,970 million in 2022, carrying strong supermarket presence .

Europe

Europe held over 30% of fresh onion and shallot output—16,246 million kg in 2024 . Germany alone accounted for 3,217 million kg, France 1,495 million kg, U.K. 2,729 million kg, Italy 1,397 million kg, Spain 1,332 million kg, and Russia 2,518 million kg . White onions commanded the largest share of fresh types.

Asia‑Pacific

Asia‑Pacific delivered 12,455 million kg in fresh output (23% share). China 5,605 million kg, India 1,495 million kg, Japan 1,719 million kg, South Korea 1,246 million kg, Australia 648 million kg, Southeast Asia 859 million kg, and rest of APAC 884 million kg in 2024 . Flavor‑extract market from Asia was USD 260 million—a 43.3% market share of the USD 601 million category .

Middle East & Africa

Middle East & Africa recorded 1,083 million kg fresh volume in 2024—2% share . The GCC contributed 464 million kg, Egypt 114 million kg, South Africa 171 million kg, Turkey 93 million kg, Nigeria 114 million kg, and other MEA countries 128 million kg . Regional dehydrated-onion usage stood at USD 128 million, or 11% of global dehydrated market .

List of Top Onions and Shallots Market Companies

Global Green Company
T&G Global
Vladam
River Point Farms
Baker & Murakami Produce
Snake River Produce
Gills Onions
JC Watson Company
TOP Onions
GIY
Oldershaw Group
Mammoth Onion
Dixondale Farms
IRISH
Peri & Sons Farms
Foppiano
Oomen Onions
Mosselman
Al-Fiza Herbal

Two companies with highest share

Avantha Holdings Limited (Global Green Company): Held the largest share of global fresh onion and shallot turnover in 2023, among top‑seven players .

T&G Global: Ranked second in global market share among the top seven firms profiled, with presence across six major regions .

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

Investment in the onions and shallots market centers on cultivation expansion, processing technologies, value‑added products and regional trade. In 2024, global harvested area reached 6.1 million ha, a 2.2% annual increase from 2013; renewed land investments could boost annual volume above 117 million tonnes . Large producers such as India (31 million t) and China (26 million t) control nearly 50% of output—investments in irrigation infrastructure and climate‑smart farming in these nations could drive yield beyond current average of 19 t/ha .

In processing, dehydrated onion output—USD 1,127 million in 2022—represents growing opportunity: North America alone accounted for USD 850 million in 2024, nearly 75% of global output . Technological investment in high‑efficiency dehydration and freeze‑drying could lower input cost and expand capacity beyond current global volume (~912 million kg/year) . Likewise, the global fried‑onion market was USD 4,208 million in 2022; North America accounted for USD 1,970 million of this . Investing in automated frying and packaging lines may boost output by 15–20% and efficiency per line.

Flavor‑extract subsegment totaled USD 601 million in 2024, with liquid formats at 58% share (~USD 349 million) and dried formats at 38.3% (~USD 230 million) . Asia‑Pacific’s 43.3% share (~USD 260 million) signals opportunities for regional extract plants and R&D into high‑potency flavor essentials .

Trade value of fresh imports was USD 4.7 billion for 9.7 million t in 2024 (~USD 484/t); exporters could invest in cold‑storage logistics to capture greater piece‑price margin . Private equity could target mid‑sized exporters in India/Egypt to vertically integrate cold‑chain management.

Consumer preferences for organics are growing: fresh organic produce commanded premium prices in North America and Europe, home to over 70% of organic produce demand (North America 40% share, Europe 30%)—the fresh market size of USD 54,152 million in 2024 included USD 19,500 million from these regions . Investments in organic certification and branding can drive 10–15% price premiums.

Lastly, digital supply chains and direct‑to‑consumer e‑commerce now cover 5% of fresh produce distribution in North America; digital investment—blockchain‑based tracking, mobile marketplaces—can capture urban retail share and traceability demand.

New Product Development

Innovations in the onions and shallots market span fresh varieties, processed formats and flavor delivery. In 2023, seed enterprises introduced high‑yield white and pink onion cultivars targeting yield above 20 t/ha—against current average 19 t/ha . Companies sourced resistant hybrid seeds—onion seed market value hit USD 1.2 billion in 2025—with high‑disease and drought tolerance traits benefiting high-pressure production zones .

In dehydrated products, recent launches include onion flake variants tailored to convenience food manufacturers; market expected to add USD 40 million between 2024–2028 . Freeze‑dried onion chips with retained aroma volume doubled over spray‑dried powder in 2023–2024 trials, representing a 20% efficiency gain.

Flavor innovation surged in 2024–2025: liquid onion extract lines reached USD 349 million share (58% of USD 601 million flavor market) , with concentrated aromatic profiles enabling 40% lower dose per volume compared to conventional dried flavoring. Companies introduced clean-label onion extracts with ≥99% purity in sachet form for seasoning blends and broth mixes.

Frozen caramelized onions with 30‑minute defrosting time entered retail in North America in late 2023, representing 15% faster preparation versus traditional diced-cooked packs. This SKU capture aimed at foodservice and home chef segments.

Onion varieties with extended shelf life emerged in 2024: Iowa‑based collaborations trialed modified-atmosphere packaging for yellow onions, extending shelf life from 90 to 150 days—a 67% increase—slated for rollout in Q3 2025.

Lastly, ready‑to‑use diced onion pouches with built‑in liquid drain filters were patented in 2024 to reduce water weight by ~10%, cutting logistics cost. Initial trials in Europe showed a 5% reduction in shipping weight and 12% less spoilage over 30 days in retail shelves.

Five Recent Developments

U.S. onion :production reached 5.188 billion lbs (~2.355 million t) in May 2023–April 2024, a 6.8% annual rise (+329 million lbs) .
North American: dehydrated onion market valued at USD 850 million in 2024, a rise from USD 1,127 million global in 2022 .
Fried‑onion: segment grew to USD 1,970 million in North America and USD 4,208 million globally in 2022 .
Flavor: extract market reached USD 601 million in 2024; Asia‑Pacific portion was USD 260 million, with liquid formats at USD 349 million share .
Fresh market: size reported at USD 54,152 million globally in 2024, with North America contributing USD 21,661 million and Asia‑Pacific USD 12,455 million .

Report Coverage of Onions and Shallots Market

The report on the onions and shallots market provides multi‑tier segmentation, including by type (Yellow, Red, White), application (Retail, Foodservice, Processing), geography (North America, Europe, Asia‑Pacific, Middle East & Africa), competitive profiling and technology developments. It covers fresh bulbs, dehydrated products, flavor extracts and fried onions, offering volume, share and pricing data at country level. The U.S. onion harvest update (5.188 billion lbs in May 2023–April 2024) exemplifies granular coverage of regional production trends .

In processing, the report examines dehydrated‑onion volumes valued at USD 1,127 million in 2022, with breakdown by form (flakes, powder, minced) and deployment in ready meals, sauces, soups — global consumption ~912 million kg . It includes fried‑onion market valuation (USD 4,208 million globally; North America USD 1,970 million in 2022), capturing distribution channels and packaging innovations .

Flavor extract submarket gets extensive analysis: 2024 value of USD 601 million, with kitchen and industrial applications split by region and form—liquid (USD 349 million), dehydrated (USD 230 million), emphasizing Asia‑Pacific consumption (USD 260 million, 43.3% of segment) . In fresh market, global production is quantified—118.45 million t in 2023, area sown (6.1 million ha in 2024), yields (~19 t/ha), plus import-export flows (9.7 million t imported; USD 4.7 billion trade value) .

The regional outlook segment reports fresh-market shares and volumes: North America (USD 21,661 million, 21,661 million kg), Europe (USD 16,246 million, 16,246 million kg), Asia‑Pacific (USD 12,455 million, 12,455 million kg), Middle East & Africa (USD 1,083 million, 1,083 million kg) . It profiles 14 countries across EU, APAC and MEA, with breakdowns by type and application, and includes supply‑chain metrics, importer‑exporter ranking and infrastructure analysis.

Company section spotlights 20 major operators, with detailed share data for top two—Global Green Company and T&G Global—plus strategic analysis of 18 others . The report also covers R&D activities—including hybrid seed introductions and novel processing techniques—alongside five recent developments and investment pockets in organics, dehydrated formats, flavor extracts and D2C e‑commerce segments.

Overall, its scope encompasses volumetric data, form-level segmentation, regional market mapping, competitive positions, supply chain evolution, product innovation and investment landscape—fully meeting analytical needs of producers, processors, investors and policy‑makers.