January 1, 2026, Global — As clocks around the world strike the first moments of 2026, nations everywhere are celebrating the New Year in diverse ways. In 2025, the global economy showed signs of steady recovery despite lingering challenges. Against this backdrop, canned food, as a vital component of global trade, experienced new developments and changes. As we welcome the New Year, we not only celebrate a fresh start but also reflect on the performance of the canned food trade in 2025 and look ahead to its trends in 2026.
Review of Canned Food Trade in 2025
In 2025, global canned food trade demonstrated steady growth. According to the 2025 Global Food Trade Report released by the International Food Trade Association (IFTA) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the total trade value of canned food reached approximately $185 billion, marking a year-on-year increase of 4.5%. This growth was primarily driven by the gradual recovery of global supply chains, rising consumer demand for convenient food products, and the advantages of canned food in storage and transportation.
Major Exporting Countries: In 2025, the leading exporters of canned food included China, the United States, Thailand, and Italy. China maintained its position as the world's largest exporter of canned food, with export values reaching around $42 billion, a 5.8% increase compared to the previous year. The United States ranked second, with export values of approximately $38 billion, up 4.2% year-on-year. Thailand, supported by strong export performance in fruit cans (particularly pineapple and mango), achieved export values of about $15 billion, a 6.5% increase.
Major Import Markets: The primary import markets for canned food included the United States, Japan, Germany, and the United Kingdom. As the largest importer of canned food, the United States recorded import values of around $32 billion in 2025, a 3.8% increase from the previous year. Japan's demand for canned seafood (especially tuna and salmon) continued to grow, with import values reaching approximately $12 billion, up 5.2%. The European market also remained stable, with Germany and the United Kingdom reporting import values of $10 billion and $8 billion, respectively.
Trade Trends: In 2025, canned food trade exhibited the following trends:
- Rising Health Consciousness: Consumer demand for low-sodium, additive-free, and organic canned food grew significantly, driving trade in related products.
- Focus on Sustainable Packaging: Eco-friendly packaging (such as recyclable metal cans) became a key selling point, with many importing countries imposing stricter environmental standards.
- Emerging Market Growth: Demand for canned food in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa increased rapidly, becoming new growth areas for trade.
Outlook for Canned Food Trade in 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, canned food trade is expected to maintain its growth momentum. According to IFTA predictions, the global trade value of canned food is projected to exceed $195 billion in 2026, representing a year-on-year growth of approximately 5%. Key trends for 2026 include:
- Supply Chain Optimization: With the further recovery of global logistics systems and the application of digital technologies, the supply chain for canned food will become more efficient and transparent. Blockchain technology is expected to play a greater role in food traceability and quality control.
- Innovation-Driven Growth: In 2026, product innovation will be a significant driver of trade growth. For example, plant-based canned foods (such as canned legumes and vegetable protein products) and functional canned foods (such as products fortified with probiotics or vitamins) are anticipated to gain more attention.
- Impact of Regional Trade Agreements: New regional trade agreements (such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, RCEP) will further promote canned food trade in the Asia-Pacific region. Reduced tariffs and fewer non-tariff barriers will create more opportunities for exporting countries.
- Development of Sustainable Trade: Environmental protection and sustainability will become central themes in 2026. Packaging materials, transportation carbon emissions, and environmental standards in the production process of canned food will face stricter regulations. Meanwhile, consumer demand for "carbon-neutral" products will encourage companies to adopt more eco-friendly practices.
- Potential of Emerging Markets: Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa will continue to be growth engines for canned food trade. As urbanization accelerates and the middle class expands in these regions, demand for convenient and durable food products will rise further.
Conclusion
New Year's Day 2026 is not only a time to celebrate but also a critical moment to look ahead at the future of global food trade. As a vital component of global trade, canned food will continue to leverage its advantages to meet the needs of consumers worldwide in the coming year. The International Food Trade Association calls on governments, businesses, and industry organizations to strengthen cooperation and jointly promote the sustainable development of canned food trade, contributing to global food security and economic prosperity.
Post time: Dec-29-2025