China dominated edible mushroom and truffle exports in 2024, with 242 million dollars, according to data from that nation’s Customs Administration.
With this, China reached a record share of 47.1% in world exports of these products.
China’s previous maximum participation in this indicator was 42.1% in 2022.
Edible mushroom and truffle exports
Mushrooms are consumed cooked in soups, stews, pastas or roasted, and are appreciated for their umami flavor. Truffles, on the other hand, are grated or sliced raw on hot dishes, noted for their intense aroma and gourmet use.
Other major exporters of edible mushrooms and truffles in 2024 were: the Netherlands ($70 million), Poland ($36 million), South Korea ($36 million) and Italy ($16 million).
Belt and Road Initiative
The China Edible Mushroom Association released the Proposal for Cooperation for Edible Mushroom Industry in the Belt and Road Countries in April 2016.
In the countries along the Belt and Road, the consumption of edible mushrooms is an ancient practice. However, cultivation technology still lags behind. Production is still concentrated on the Shuangbao mushroom and wild varieties.
Against this backdrop, Farmmi noted that the Belt and Road Initiative opens up new opportunities. Through greater communication and cooperation between the countries involved, the industry can be modernized and joint growth can be promoted. Thus, the development of the sector could translate into shared benefits throughout the region.
Farmmi is a Chinese company engaged in the production, processing and distribution of edible mushrooms, including shiitake and mu er, as well as other agricultural products
According to Farmmi, the Chinese government’s Belt and Road Initiative could open up new opportunities for China’s edible mushroom industry. The plan, which calls for the joint development of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Route, seeks to accelerate regional cooperation. This effort, in addition to fostering economic growth among participating countries, aims to strengthen cultural ties, promote mutual learning and contribute to global stability and development.