China and India led Asian broccoli and cauliflower production in 2008

The most Asiatic populated countries accounted for 92% have dominated broccoli and cauliflower production between 2004 and 2008.

China maintains its position as top broccoli and cauliflower producer in the Asiatic continent, having harvested a volume of more than 8 million tonnes in 2008, 13% more than in 2004, according to data from the Statistics Division of the Food and Agricultural Organization of the UN (FAOSTAT).

Overall, broccoli and cauliflower production in the Asian continent totalled 14.4 million tonnes in 2008, which represented an increase of 8% over the 5-year period between 2004 and 2008.

The top Asian broccoli and cauliflower producers, namely China and India, have maintained their respective positions over the period studied.

China was responsible for 58% of all production, while India for 35%. On the other hand, broccoli and cauliflower production in the countries outside the top producers – representing 8% of total production in 2008 – rose by 7% over the 5-year period studied.

Asian broccoli and cauliflower production (2004-2008)

Own elaboration, with data as at 21 June 2010 from: http://faostat.fao.org/site/567/default.aspx#ancor, Statistics Division, Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAOSTAT)

Ups and downs
Since 2004, China has shown stable growth as a producer, increasing its harvest by 13% and retaining its leading position among the top 5 broccoli and cauliflower-producing countries, while the others have lost ground.

India maintained its production volume over the 5-year period, harvesting more than 5 million tonnes in 2008 (a growth variation of only 1.5% on 2004).

S&G Brassicas Today - June 2010