72 Euros in US Dollars: The Growing Global Organic Market
The global organic market is experiencing significant growth, reaching an estimated 72 billion US dollars in 2013. This equates to approximately 55 billion euros, highlighting the substantial economic impact of the organic sector worldwide. This article explores the market’s expansion, key players, and the increasing acreage dedicated to organic farming.
Organic Market Growth and Leading Players
The United States leads the global organic market, boasting a value of 24.3 billion euros. Germany and France follow, with 7.6 billion and 4.4 billion euros respectively. Notably, China emerged as the fourth largest market in 2013, with a value of 2.4 billion euros. While market size indicates overall consumption, per capita spending reveals individual consumer behavior. Switzerland and Denmark lead in per capita spending on organic products, with 210 euros and 163 euros respectively. This signifies a strong consumer preference for organic goods in these countries.
Two Million Organic Producers Worldwide
The organic sector is not only thriving in terms of market value but also in the number of producers involved. In 2013, a record-breaking two million organic producers were reported globally. India leads the way with 650,000 producers, followed by Uganda (189,610) and Mexico (169,703). This widespread participation underscores the growing global commitment to organic farming practices.
Organic Farmland Expanding Across Continents
The increasing demand for organic products is driving a significant expansion in organic farmland. By the end of 2013, 43.1 million hectares were dedicated to organic agriculture, representing a growth of nearly 6 million hectares compared to the previous year. Oceania experienced the most substantial growth, with a 42% increase in organic land, largely attributed to the conversion of rangeland in Australia to organic production. Australia now holds the largest organic agricultural area globally, with 17.2 million hectares (97% used for grazing). Argentina and the United States follow, with 3.2 million and 2.2 million hectares respectively. Oceania accounts for 40% of the world’s organic agricultural land (17.3 million hectares), followed by Europe (27%; 11.5 million hectares) and Latin America (15%; 6.6 million hectares).
Countries with the Highest Percentage of Organic Farmland
Several countries demonstrate a strong commitment to organic farming, dedicating a significant portion of their total agricultural land to organic practices. The Falkland Islands lead with 36.3% of farmland dedicated to organic agriculture, followed by Liechtenstein (31%) and Austria (19.5%). Eleven countries have surpassed the 10% mark, indicating a substantial shift towards organic agriculture in these nations.
Conclusion: Continued Growth in the Organic Sector
The global organic market’s continued expansion, exemplified by its 72 billion US dollar value in 2013, reflects a growing consumer demand for organic products. With increasing numbers of producers, expanding organic farmland, and strong per capita spending in certain regions, the organic sector is poised for continued growth and positive impact on the global economy and environment.