Italian Fruit on Tables Around the World

Italian Fruit Exports: Volumes, Markets, and Fresh Produce Logistics

It may seem almost unbelievable that an apple harvested in an Italian valley can end up on a family’s table in Saudi Arabia, yet this is standard practice in agri-food logistics. According to ISTAT data processed by Fruitimprese, in 2024 Italian fresh fruit exports reached nearly 2.2 million tons, with a total value of around €3.2 billion, showing growth both in volume and value compared to the previous year.

This result confirms Italy’s competitiveness in international markets and highlights the strategic role of refrigerated logistics in transporting fresh fruit.

Apples, Kiwis, Grapes, and Plums: The Stars of Italian Exports

The main exported products include apples, kiwis, grapes, and plums, grown in different regions of Italy but united by a highly specialized logistics chain.

A key role is played by Naus, a shipping company based in Genoa, specializing in fresh fruit transport. We have a long working history with Naus for the shipment of refrigerated containers (reefers) from collection centers to Italy’s main ports.

Destination Markets: Where Italian Fruit Travels

 

The main destinations for Italian fresh fruit exports have remained relatively stable over time. Leading the list is the Persian Gulf, with Saudi Arabia as the primary market, followed by:

  • North and South America;
  • North Africa and the Middle East (especially Egypt and Israel);
  • Far East;
  • Oceania.

In practice, Italian fruit is consumed on every continent, confirming strong international demand for Made in Italy fresh produce.

Transporting Fresh Fruit: Reefer Containers and the Cold Chain

Maritime transport of fruit is almost exclusively carried out using 40-foot high cube refrigerated containers. Each container holds about 21 pallets, with:

  • Maximum stacking height: 2.30 metres;
  • Clearance from the ceiling: approximately 20 cm to ensure proper ventilation;
  • Maximum weight: 25 tons, in compliance with road limits.

The standard temperature is 0°C for all fresh fruit. Ventilation, however, varies according to the product:

  • 15 cbm/hr for kiwis;
  • 25 cbm/hr for apples, grapes, and plums.

Cold Treatment: What It Is and When It’s Mandatory?

 

Depending on the destination country, certain fruit shipments are subject to cold treatment, a phytosanitary procedure regulated by international protocols. It involves a controlled “quarantine” at specified temperatures to eliminate potential pests. Cold treatment can be carried out:

  • In transit, during the container’s voyage;
  • Before departure, in refrigerated warehouses at loading centers.

Table Grape Exports: Stable Volumes, Solid Value

In recent years, Italian grape exports have slowed slightly, with volumes either declining or stagnating. However, commercial value remains high due to the introduction of new varieties and strong demand in select markets.

Italy remains among Europe’s top producers and exporters, with foreign sales exceeding €800 million, and markets such as Germany, France, and Poland maintaining their importance.

Apple Exports: Italy Among the World Leaders

Italy’s role in the European apple market has changed significantly. Today, the country is among the world’s top apple exporters, with:

  • Over 1 million tons exported;
  • A value of approximately €1.2 billion;
  • Volume growth of +24% compared to 2024.

Apples are harvested and delivered to collection centers in bins of around 200 kg, where sorting and grading begin in water to prevent bruising.

They pass through large tanks and are measured according to:

  • Variety;
  • Size (caliber);
  • Colour percentage.

The caliber corresponds to the number of apples in an 18 kg carton:

  • 193 apples = caliber 193 (small apples);
  • 56 apples = caliber 56 (large apples).

Apple Size and Commercial Classification

Each variety has its own commercial classification. For example:

  • The “Snow White” red apple is labeled Premium, Extra Fancy, or Fancy depending on colour intensity;
  • Gala apples follow the same logic;
  • Golden apples are classified according to yellow-to-green hue.

Optical readers are used in warehouses to automatically separate apples by colour and size. Homogeneous batches are stored in cold rooms and packaged according to orders. If required, vegetable wax polishing is also performed.

Kiwis: Grading and Commercial Standards

The process for kiwis is similar, but water is not used. The caliber corresponds to the number of fruits in a 3 kg crate:

  • 30 kiwis = caliber 30
  • Classes range from 46 (small) to 20 (large)

For over ten years, Italian kiwi production has faced a structural crisis.

In addition to bacterial disease, the sector has suffered from:

  • Sudden die-off events;
  • Water stress;
  • Climate change;
  • Soil management issues.

The result is a significant drop in production, especially in historical growing regions such as Piedmont, where the sector has undergone downsizing and a profound reorganization of cultivated areas.