Ginger: mixed picture in China

High supply meets rising costs in China

China is recording a significantly larger crop than in previous years, aided by good growing conditions. However, persistent rainfall during the harvest caused delays. After the harvest, low temperatures led to frost damage, impairing the quality of some of the goods. This necessitates stricter selection for export, particularly for produce from Shandong, where quality is inconsistent. At the same time, logistics costs are rising significantly, partly as a result of geopolitical developments, which is exerting additional upward pressure on prices. However, the high supply is also putting downward pressure on prices, resulting in a mixed picture overall.

Stable market in Italy

The Italian market is currently in a dynamic phase, with an overall stable trend. Due to the temporary lack of shipments from Brazil, China has effectively taken over the role of main supplier. The first containers have arrived, although there are uncertainties regarding quality, as some of the goods have a high moisture content and the final result depends heavily on origin, supply chain and logistics. Prices remain at a high level, with earlier shipments having been more expensive than goods currently being shipped, which are expected to arrive in the coming weeks and could be slightly cheaper. Differences also arise depending on certification and production methods. Peru is present in Italian imports with limited quantities and is trading at a higher price level. Currently, only small quantities of young goods are being delivered from Brazil by air freight, whilst regular sea freight shipments are not expected until June. Additional volumes from Thailand could reach the market sooner. Overall, the situation remains firm, supported by stable demand, although new market players could quickly influence price trends.

The French market is characterised by a balanced supply and demand. Prices remain largely stable with occasional minor upward and downward adjustments, without any major structural changes. Demand is described as steady but lacking any particular momentum. Ginger continues to benefit from its use in the health and nutrition sectors, yet buyers remain cautious. Compared to last year, the situation remains similar, but appears somewhat quieter overall with lower market activity and growing competitive pressure between origins, according to FreshPlaza.

German ginger market under pressure

In the Netherlands, limited supply is leading to a generally firm market situation. The shortage is also affecting other European markets. At the same time, quality issues with Chinese produce, resulting from the unfavourable weather conditions during the harvest, are impacting supply. Supplementary volumes from Thailand are viewed more favourably in terms of quality. The combination of limited availability and quality differences is keeping prices at a persistently high level.

In Germany, however, the market is under pressure. Prices are significantly below last year’s levels, which is attributable to a steady supply from China and Thailand as well as weaker demand. Seasonal effects and mild weather have further dampened sales. Short-term shortages at the start of the year have since been offset. Looking ahead, rising transport costs could lead to a stabilisation or slight increase in prices.

Higher production in Peru

In North America, supply has expanded significantly with shipments from China, Thailand, Mexico and Peru. This trend is leading to falling prices. At the same time, demand has weakened following a strong start to the year, partly due to changes in consumer behaviour. The rising volumes are further intensifying the downward pressure on prices.

In Peru, an increase in production is expected, which, combined with an overall rise in global availability, is putting further pressure on prices. At the same time, trade flows are shifting as Europe loses importance due to stricter requirements. Around 80% of Peruvian exports go to the US.

Brazil is currently experiencing a period of low supply, which increases the importance of Chinese goods, particularly in Europe. At the same time, the market is volatile, as shifts in trade flows can lead to price fluctuations, in some cases even below cost. The outlook for the coming season remains uncertain and depends heavily on logistical conditions, competition with China, and the balance between supply and demand.

Positive crop prospects stabilise the market in South Africa

South Africa is benefiting from favourable weather conditions and expects a strong, high-quality crop. Supply prospects are considered stable, which is reflected in steady price trends. The possibility of storage also extends availability. Ginger cultivation is also increasing in southern Mozambique, according to FreshPlaza’s experts.

EU imports have fallen significantly

EU ginger imports this year have so far fallen by almost 16% year-on-year. Almost all of the major suppliers, including China in first place, Côte d’Ivoire, Vietnam and Nigeria, have suffered significant losses; only India, which ranks second among the main suppliers, has managed to increase its exports to EU countries by 38.6% so far in 2026. Overall, 1,546 mt were imported.

The average import price fell by a moderate 1% year-on-year to EUR 2.95/kg, bringing the total import value to just over EUR 4.556 million so far. The largest buyer within the EU since the start of the year has been the Netherlands, followed by Germany and Belgium.

View more
- price charts