China's Organic Ascent to Global Prominence

China has become a global organic market leader, ranking third with €12.4 billion in sales, driven by consumer demand, government support, and sustainable farming practices.

FREMONT CA,: China has solidified its position as one of the top three organic markets globally, a milestone that underscores the growing significance of organic products in the global economy. With a market share of 9.2 percent in global organic sales, China now stands alongside the U.S. and Europe as leaders in this sector. This achievement is prominently detailed in the report “The World of Organic Agriculture: Statistics & Emerging Trends 2024”, developed by FiBL and IFOAM – Organics International.

The global organic market has expanded dramatically in recent years. In 2022, retail sales of organic products, including food and beverages, reached €134.8 billion, a sharp increase from €15.1 billion in 2000. This growth reflects a sustained global interest in organic products, fueled by consumer demand for healthier, more sustainable food options. China’s organic market, now valued at €12.4 billion, represents a significant share of this global expansion. It ranks just behind the U.S., which leads with €58.6 billion in sales, and the European Union, which contributes €45.1 billion.

China's influence extends beyond its market size. The country is also a global leader in organic farming, with over 2.9 million hectares of farmland dedicated to organic agriculture. This positions China as the fourth-largest country in terms of organic farmland, trailing only Australia, India, and a few other nations. The country's rise in this domain highlights the nation's commitment to sustainable agriculture and reflects broader global trends emphasizing environmental responsibility and food security.

The rapid growth of the Chinese organic market can be attributed to shifting consumer preferences and proactive government policies. Organic foods are increasingly considered a healthier and safer choice among Chinese consumers. This perception has been amplified by a series of food safety incidents in the past, which led to heightened public awareness and a stronger emphasis on quality and traceability in food production. The Chinese government has introduced policies that promote organic farming practices to meet this growing demand. Economic incentives and sustainability initiatives have played a critical role in fostering the growth of the country's organic sector.

Globally, the organic sector has seen unprecedented growth in recent years. In 2022, organic farming covered over 96 million hectares worldwide, with the number of organic producers reaching 4.5 million—a more than 20 percent increase compared to previous years. This growth is fueled by a global transition toward sustainable agriculture and increased awareness of the environmental and health advantages of organic products. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this trend, as consumers became more health-conscious and sought foods aligning with their wellness goals.

Despite this global momentum, the organic sector has faced challenges, particularly in Europe. Growth in the European market has slowed or stagnated due to several factors, including the war in Ukraine, inflation, and reduced consumer purchasing power. These challenges have prompted stakeholders to explore growth opportunities in emerging regions such as Africa. Countries like Uganda and Tanzania are beginning to adopt organic policies, signaling potential for future expansion.

China’s rise in the global organic market exemplifies a broader shift toward sustainable and health-conscious consumption patterns. Supported by consumer demand and favorable government policies, the country’s organic sector is poised for continued growth. This development not just enhances the country's food security and public health but positions it as a key player in the global movement toward sustainable agriculture. As the demand for organic products continues to rise, China’s example highlights the transformative potential of combining policy support with consumer awareness to foster a more sustainable future.