Mexico Fresh Food Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032

Mexico Fresh Food Market Size

The Mexico fresh food market reached approximately USD 87.89 billion in 2023. The market is further projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% between 2024 and 2032, reaching a value of USD 130.66 billion by 2032.

Mexico Fresh Food Market Outlook

• Mexico is a major producer of fresh produce, with green chili being the most consumed vegetable per capita.

• As per industry reports, Mexico accounted for 88% and 86% of all U.S. avocado and tomato imports in 2022.

• Mexico was the second-biggest U.S. importer of berries (excluding strawberries), valued at USD 2.49 billion in November 2022, a 15% increase from the previous year.

Mexico Fresh Food Market Growth

Fresh food refers to food products that are not preserved by freezing, dehydration, canning, or smoking. These food products are locally sourced and have several nutritional value and flavours. They contain essential minerals, vitamins, and fibres, among other values that are essential for the maintaining good health. As per industry reports, Mexico exports over USD 11 billion worth of fresh produce to the U.S. annually, making it a critical trade partner for fresh fruits and vegetables.

The Mexico fresh food market development is expected to continue growing, driven by factors such as increasing disposable income, urbanisation, and a growing middle class. Consumers are shifting towards online shopping and home delivery due to the convenience and safety it offers, particularly during the pandemic. The market is also expected to stabilise with the control of inflation and the government's initiatives to curb food price increases, leading to increased spending on fresh food.

Key Trends and Developments

Increasing demand for fresh meat and poultry, growing farmers' markets, and expansion of online platforms are factors positively impacting the Mexico fresh food market outlook

June 2024

In the first week of June 2024, Mexico shipped approximately 3,144,237 boxes of Atkins, Ataulfo, Haden, Keitt, Kent, Thai, and Mallika mangoes to the US. This shows that Mexico is maintaining its strong position as an exporter of fruits to the USA, which increased by 10% in 2023.

May 2024

Mexico's avocado industry has experienced a remarkable surge in growth, with the land dedicated to avocado farming nearly tripling in the past 40 years. This remarkable expansion has been driven by the increasing global demand for this nutritious fruit and the high profits it generates.

September 2023

Mexico and the United States collaborated to improve the safety and quality of fresh produce and for ensuring a smoother trade process between the two countries. The collaboration will reduce trade barriers, increase market access, and improve practices to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Growing demand for fresh meat and poultry

The demand for fresh meat and poultry is increasing in Mexico due to the growing population and the desire for different sources of protein. This trend is driven by the rising popularity of alternative protein sources like pork, which is more economically accessible than beef.

Shift towards health-conscious and sustainable options

Consumers in Mexico are becoming more health-conscious and are seeking organic and locally sourced food products. The expansion of farmers' markets, organic food stores, and farm-to-table restaurants that specialise in serving locally sourced, fresh ingredients supports this trend.

Increased accessibility through online platforms

The convenience and variety offered by online platforms are attracting consumers to purchase fresh food products. Amazon and Rappi are popular online platforms in Mexico that offer fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat.

Focus on food safety and packaging

In response to the pandemic, many brands have focused on reassuring customers about their commitment to food safety by offering packaged options in self-service areas of grocery retailers. This trend is driven by the growing concern for food safety and the need for convenient and accessible packaging.

Mexico Fresh Food Market Trends

The growing prevalence of various lifestyle diseases and disorders in Mexico has resulted in a shift in dietary habits of the consumers. Therefore, the increasing awareness about the various advantages associated with the consumption of fresh food products is bolstering the Mexico fresh food market growth.

The growing demand for organic food products owing to increasing awareness about the potential health risks associated with the consumption of pesticides and chemicals in conventional farming practices is supporting the market expansion. The high nutritional value and better taste of fresh organic fruits and vegetables is further boosting their consumption in Mexico.

Mexico Fresh Food Industry Segmentation

The EMR’s report titled “Mexico Fresh Food Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Product Type

• Bread and Bakery

• Dairy

• Fish and Seafood

• Fruits and Vegetables

• Meat and Poultry

Market Breakup by Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets

• Open Market

• Departmental Stores

• Online

• Others

Market Breakup by Region

• Baja California

• Northern Mexico

• The Bajío

• Central Mexico

• Pacific Coast

• Yucatan Peninsula

Mexico Fresh Food Market Share

Poultry, meat, fruits, and vegetables segments are growing rapidly due to their rising consumption

Poultry and meat segment is growing due to the rising requirement for fresh meat and poultry to achieve body’s protein requirement. Fresh meat and poultry provide various health benefits to the consumer due to their low levels of fat and high nutritional value. The increased accessibility of such products across different distribution channels is further supporting the segment’s growth.

The fruits and vegetables segment is also a major contributor to the Mexico fresh food market expansion, driven by the country's fertile agricultural regions and diverse climates. Key players in this segment include local farmers and distributors, such as those operating in the Mercado de San Juan in Mexico City.

Meanwhile, the bread and bakery segment’s growth is driven by the popularity of traditional Mexican breads and pastries. Major players in this segment include Grupo Bimbo, S.A.B. de C.V. and Sigma Alimentos, S.A de C.V., which operate large-scale bakeries and retail chains across the country. The dairy segment also has a prominent Mexico fresh food market share, driven by the demand for milk, cheese, and other dairy products.

Supermarkets and hypermarkets contribute to market’s expansion by offering a vast range of fresh produce

Supermarkets and hypermarkets are anticipated to account for a significant market share due to the availability of a wide range of products and brands to choose from. The convenience and prices also attract consumers to supermarkets and hypermarkets. Additionally, the presence of helpful sales professionals and representatives allows consumers to select products most suitable to their requirements. Examples of major players in this segment include Walmart, Soriana, and Chedraui, which operate numerous stores across the country.

As per Mexico fresh food market analysis, open markets, also known as traditional markets, are also contributing to the market’s growing share. These markets are often run by local vendors and are known for offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and other food items at competitive prices. The Mercado de San Juan in Mexico City is a popular open market.

Online channels, including e-commerce platforms and home delivery services also have a substantial share as these services offer consumers the convenience of shopping from home and having their groceries delivered. Mercado Libre is a popular e-commerce platform in Mexico that offers a wide range of fresh produce. Walmart has also expanded its online grocery shopping service in Mexico.

Leading Companies in the Mexico Fresh Food Market

Market players are focused on providing a wide range of fresh meat and poultry, fruits and vegetables, dairy, fish and seafood, and bread and bakery items

Grupo Bimbo, S.A.B. de C.V., headquartered in Mexico City, Mexico, is a multinational food company that has a strong distribution network and prominent presence in over 33 countries. Founded in 1945, it provides various products including Oroweat, Rainbo, Sara Lee, and Bimbo, among others.

Sigma Alimentos, S.A de C.V., founded in 1980, headquartered in Monterrey, Mexico, is a multinational food distribution and processing company that is involved in the production and distribution of refrigerated foods, yogurts, cheeses, and lunch meats.

Grupo Herdez, S.A.B. de C.V., founded in 1914, headquartered in Mexico, provides different Mexican food products in various regions across the United States. The product portfolio of the company includes frozen yogurt, mayonnaise, tuna, guacamole, and spices, among others.

Garcia Fresh Vegetables LLC was founded in 2011 and is based in Texas, United States. It import and export fresh fruits and vegetables, primarily from the United States and Mexico. The company is part of the McAllen Produce Terminal Market, which is a major hub for international produce trade.

Other key players included in the Mexico fresh food market report are Bachoco, SA DE CV, GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V, JBS SA, AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG, Can-Am Pepper Company Limited, and Alimentos Profusa, SA de CV, among others.

Mexico Fresh Food Market Analysis by Region

Baja California leads the market due to its large agricultural production

Baja California is a significant contributor to the market, driven by its strategic location and diverse agricultural production. The region is known for its production of avocados, tomatoes, and berries, which are exported to international markets. As per industry reports, United States imported onions and cauliflower and broccoli from Mexico worth a value of USD 451 million and USD 392 million in November 2022, which shows a 6% and 12% increase from the previous year. Moreover, the region’s access to sun-drenched climates allows for abundant fresh vegetables, grapes (for wine), and olives (for olive oil).

Key Highlights of the Report

Mexico Fresh Food Market Report Snapshots

Mexico Fresh Food Market Size

Mexico Fresh Food Market Growth

Mexico Fresh Food Market Trends

Mexico Fresh Food Market Share

Mexico Fresh Food Companies

Mexico Fresh Food Market Regional Analysis