According to data from Eurostat and the Mexican Ministry of Economy, Spain and Mexico led the global exports of cucumbers and gherkins in 2020, accounting for 47% of all cucumbers and gherkins exports worldwide. Spain achieved exports of these vegetables worth 743 million dollars, i.e. 9.6% more than in 2019. It was followed by Mexico, with exports worth 648 million dollars, i.e. 14.7% more than in the previous season. Mexican exports were destined almost entirely (98.8%) to the United States, the world's largest importer of these products. The remaining percentage was basically destined for Canada. The Netherlands, Canada, the United States, and China were other large global exporters of cucumbers and gherkins.
The fourth most cultivated vegetable in the world
Cucumber originated in the tropical regions of South Asia. It has been cultivated in India for more than 3,000 years. Over the years it became popular in Greece and Rome. The latter introduced it to the rest of Europe. Cucumber is currently widely cultivated in Europe and North America. It is the fourth most grown vegetable in the world, behind tomatoes, cabbage, and onions.