US Onion Import Data 2025–26: Database of Top Onion Importers in USA

The United States is one of the world’s largest consumers of onions, and while domestic production is strong, imports play a critical role in stabilizing supply, filling seasonal gaps, and supporting food processing industries. In 2025–26, the U.S. onion import market continues to expand steadily, backed by consistent demand from retail, foodservice, and industrial buyers. According to the latest US import data and onion import data of the USA, the total value of US onion imports reached $368.49 million in 2025, a 29% decline from the previous year. The US imported onions worth $34.09 million in the first 2 months of 2026, according to US onion import data under HS code 070310. 

Onion is the 449th most imported commodity in the United States. The USA is the largest importer of onions worldwide, according to global trade data. This blog breaks down the latest available data, trends, and a structured view of top onion importers in the U.S., along with insights into sourcing countries, shipment patterns, and how businesses can leverage the US onion import database. 

Overview of US Onion Import Market (2025–26)

The U.S. onion market is a mix of strong domestic production and strategic imports. American farmers produce around 6.75 billion pounds of onions annually, ensuring year-round availability, as per the report of the National Onion Association of the US.

However, imports remain essential due to:

• Seasonal production gaps

• Regional demand imbalances

• Cost competitiveness from global suppliers

• Industrial demand for processed onions

Key 2025 Indicators

• Total import value (2025): $686 million

• Import volume (2023 baseline): 626,000 metric tons

• Projected volume growth: from 593K tons (2024) to 613K tons (2028)

This reflects a stable but growing import market, driven by population growth and processed food consumption.

US Onion Imports by Country: Where Does the US Import Onions From?

When it comes to onion imports, the United States relies on several countries to meet its demand for this popular vegetable. US onion imports by country play a crucial role in meeting the demand for this versatile vegetable in the US market. The US imports onions from various countries, with Mexico being the largest supplier, followed by Peru, Canada, and the Netherlands. 

These imports help ensure a steady supply of onions throughout the year, supporting the needs of consumers, food manufacturers, and restaurants alike. The top 10 onion supplier countries to the USA, as per the American onion import statistics & the US onion shipment data for 2025, include: 

1. Mexico: $223.66 million (60.7%)

Mexico is the leading supplier of onions to the US, accounting for a significant portion of the total imports. With its proximity to the US and favorable growing conditions, Mexico is able to provide a steady supply of high-quality onions to meet the demand in the US market.

2. Peru: $75.71 million (20.5%)

Peru is another key player in the US onion import market, providing a substantial amount of onions to meet the demand from US consumers. The favorable climate and growing conditions in Peru make it an ideal location for onion cultivation, allowing for a consistent supply of fresh onions to be imported into the US.

3. Canada: $53.12 million (14.4%)

Canada is also a significant supplier of onions to the US, with a sizable portion of the total imports coming from our neighbors to the north. The close proximity of Canada to the US makes it a convenient source of onions for American consumers, ensuring a reliable supply of this popular vegetable.

4. Netherlands: $6.40 million (1.7%)

The Netherlands is known for its high-quality agricultural products, including onions. While the volume of onions imported from the Netherlands is relatively small compared to other countries, the quality and freshness of Dutch onions make them a popular choice for US consumers.

5. France: $3.44 million (0.9%)

France may be famous for its cuisine, but it also plays a role in supplying onions to the US market. Despite being a smaller player in the onion import market, France's onions are appreciated for their unique flavor profiles and culinary versatility.

6. China: $1.93 million (0.5%)

China is another country that contributes to the US onion imports, albeit on a smaller scale, as per the data on US onion imports from China by HS code. Chinese onions offer a different flavor profile compared to other varieties, adding diversity to the onion options available to US consumers.

7. Chile: $1.43 million (0.4%)

Chile is a relatively small but important supplier of onions to the US, providing a niche product for consumers seeking a different onion experience. The onions from Chile are known for their distinct taste and texture, appealing to a segment of the market that appreciates unique flavors.

8. New Zealand: $1.03 million (0.3%)

New Zealand may be geographically distant from the US, but it is still a notable player in the US onion import market, as per the data on US onion imports from New Zealand. The onions from New Zealand are prized for their freshness and quality, making them a popular choice for discerning consumers.

9. Guatemala: $529K (0.1%)

Guatemala may be a smaller player in the US onion import market, but it still contributes to the overall supply of onions to meet the demand from American consumers. Guatemalan onions offer a different flavor profile compared to other varieties, providing a unique option for consumers looking to try something new.

10. Türkiye: $474K (0.1%)

Turkey, also known as Türkiye, is a lesser-known but still important source of onions for the US market. Turkish onions are valued for their distinctive taste & culinary versatility, adding diversity to the range of onion options available to US consumers.

Key Trend (2025–26)

• Latin America dominates the fresh onion supply

• Asia dominates processed onion exports

US Onion Buyers Database: Top Onion Importers in the USA

The US Onion Buyers Database is a valuable resource for businesses looking to connect with top onion importers in the USA. This comprehensive database provides detailed information on key players in the industry, allowing companies to efficiently target potential buyers and establish lucrative partnerships. Olam Food Ingredients is the largest onion importer in the US. The leading onion importers in USA, as per the US onion importers data for 2025, include: 

1. Olam Food Ingredients

• Approx. import value: $90 million

• Top import types: Dehydrated onions, onion powder

• Top sources: India, China

2. Sensient Natural Ingredients

• Approx. import value: $80 million

• Top import types: Onion powder, granules

• Top sources: India, China

3. McCormick & Company

• Approx. import value: $70 million

• Top import types: Dried onions, seasoning blends

• Top sources: India, Egypt, China

4. Grimmway Farms

• Approx. import value: $40 million

• Top import types: Fresh onions (bulk)

• Top sources: Mexico, Peru

5. Gills Onions LLC

• Approx. import value: $35 million

• Top import types: Fresh and processed onions

• Top sources: Mexico

6. Taylor Farms

• Approx. import value: $30 million

• Top import types: Fresh, chopped onions

• Top sources: Mexico, USA (supplemental imports)

7. Sysco Corporation

• Approx. import value: $27 million

• Top import types: Fresh, frozen, processed onions

• Top sources: Mexico, Peru

8. US Foods Inc.

• Approx. import value: $25 million

• Top import types: Fresh and processed onions

• Top sources: Mexico, Canada

9. J.R. Simplot Company

• Approx. import value: $20 million

• Top import types: Frozen onions, processed foods

• Top sources: Mexico, Canada

10. Pacific Coast Producers

• Approx. import value: $15 million

• Top import types: Processed and canned onions

• Top sources: Mexico, USA (blended sourcing)

Categories of US Onion Importers

There are several categories of onion importers in USA, as per the US onion buyers data:

1. Large Produce Distributors

• Supply supermarkets and retail chains

• Handle bulk fresh onion imports

2. Food Processing Companies

• Import dried and frozen onions

• Supply packaged food brands

3. Wholesale Importers

• Supply regional markets and foodservice

4. Retail Supply Chains

• Direct importers for large grocery chains

Sample Structure of a US Onion Importer Database

A typical onion import database includes:

Such databases are critical for:

• Lead generation

• Market entry strategies

• Competitor analysis

US Onion Imports in the Last 10 Years: Historical Import Data

US Onion Shipment-Level Data: A Look at Trade Activity

One of the most useful ways to understand the onion import market is through shipment-level intelligence.

Between July 2024 and June 2025, the U.S. imported:

• 98,500+ onion shipments

• From 12,000+ exporters

• Purchased by 3,000 global buyers

Additionally:

• Around 3,789 importers were active in the U.S. market

What this means

• The market is highly fragmented

• No single importer dominates completely

• Opportunities exist for new entrants and niche suppliers

Types of Onions Imported into the USA

The U.S. imports different forms of onions depending on end use:

1. Fresh Onions

• Largest share (75%+)

• Used in retail, foodservice, and wholesale

2. Dried Onions

• Used in seasoning and processed foods

• Major suppliers include China and India

3. Frozen & Processed Onions

• Used in ready meals and fast food chains

Industry Insight: The dominance of fresh onions reflects strong demand from supermarkets and restaurants, while dried onions are critical for large-scale food manufacturing.

Market Trends Driving US Onion Imports

1. Rising Demand from Food Industry

The U.S. processed food sector drives significant demand for:

• Onion powder

• Dehydrated onions

• Frozen diced onions

The U.S. is also one of the largest importers of onion powder globally, especially from India.

2. Year-Round Supply Requirement

Even with strong domestic production, imports are needed because:

• Harvest cycles vary by region

• Weather disruptions affect supply

• Retail chains require consistent availability

3. Price Arbitrage Opportunities

Importers take advantage of:

• Lower production costs in exporting countries

• Favorable currency exchange rates

Supply Chain Diversification

Post-pandemic, U.S. buyers are:

• Expanding supplier networks

• Reducing dependence on single countries

Growth Outlook for 2026–2030

The U.S. onion import market is expected to grow steadily.

Forecast Highlights

• Annual volume growth: 5,000 tons/year

• Stable demand across retail and processing sectors

• Increasing role of global trade platforms and databases

Key Growth Drivers

• Population growth

• Food processing expansion

• Demand for convenience foods

How to Use US Onion Import Data for Business

Access to import databases gives businesses a major advantage.

1. Identify Buyers

You can find:

• Active importers

• High-volume buyers

• Repeat purchasers

2. Track Competitors

• Who your competitors are selling to

• Pricing benchmarks

• Supplier networks

3. Discover New Markets

• Regional demand trends

• Untapped buyers

4. Optimize Pricing

• Analyze shipment-level price trends

• Understand seasonal price fluctuations

Challenges in the US Onion Import Market

Despite growth, importers face several challenges:

1. Price Volatility

• Driven by weather and crop yields

2. Regulatory Compliance

• FDA, USDA, and customs requirements

3. Trade Costs

• Import and cold chain expenses

4. Trade Policies

• Tariffs and export restrictions from supplier countries

Strategic Insights

For Importers

• Diversify sourcing across Latin America and Asia

• Invest in long-term supplier contracts

For Exporters

• Focus on quality and consistency

• Build relationships with large U.S. distributors

For Traders

• Use shipment-level data for lead generation

• Track seasonal demand cycles

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the U.S. onion import market in 2025–26 is defined by steady growth, diversified sourcing, and strong demand across multiple industries. With over 3,700 importers and nearly 100,000 annual shipments, the market offers significant opportunities for exporters, traders, and data-driven businesses. Import databases have become essential tools in this ecosystem. They provide visibility into buyers, suppliers, pricing, and shipment trends, allowing companies to make smarter decisions and gain a competitive edge. As global trade continues to evolve, those who leverage data effectively will be best positioned to succeed in the U.S. onion import market.

Note For Our Readers

We hope you found this blog on US onion import data for 2025–26, key market trends, and the database of top onion importers in the USA helpful in understanding how the supply landscape is evolving. With steady demand across retail and food processing sectors, increasing reliance on imports to bridge seasonal gaps, and strong competition from global suppliers like Mexico, India, and China, staying informed with accurate and reliable trade data is essential for making sound sourcing and business decisions.

If you’re looking for deeper insights, customized US export-import data, or want to explore live US onion import data by country, company, or HS code, feel free to connect with USImportdata. We provide comprehensive and up-to-date US trade databases to support your research and business needs. For exclusive access or tailored data solutions, contact us at info@tradeimex.in and move forward with clarity and confidence.