Plums Prices in the United States from 2020 to 2025

2020

• Export Price: The average export price for plums and sloes from the U.S. was approximately $2.25 per kilogram (kg). This reflects the value of U.S. exports, which amounted to 22,441 metric tonnes, generating around $50.5 million.

• Import Price: The import price per kilogram was about $2.25, showing stability in the import market.

• Retail Price Range: Retail prices for plums and sloes ranged between $1.93 and $2.90 per kg (or $0.88 to $1.31 per pound), depending on region and season.

• Context: The year 2020 saw a dip in global demand due to the pandemic, but U.S. plum exports remained relatively steady, though lower than the 27,363 tonnes exported in 2019.

2021

• Export Price: The export price slightly decreased to $2.23 per kg, with export values reflecting a total of $57.46 million for approximately 25,762 tonnes (derived from value and price data).

• Import Price: Imports held steady at $2.23 per kg, with the U.S. importing significant volumes, primarily from Chile.

• Retail Price Range: Similar to 2020, retail prices fluctuated between $1.93 and $2.90 per kg.

• Context: Production dropped to 80,660 tons from 12,800 acres, a 17% decrease from 2020, due to factors like alternate bearing and weather conditions. Import values for fresh plums were $41.5 million, indicating reliance on foreign supply.

2022

• Export Price: Prices rose notably to $2.95 per kg, the highest in the five-year span, driven by tighter global supplies and increased demand. Export value was $57.46 million for 9.06% of global exports (approximately 19,478 tonnes).

• Import Price: Import prices also peaked at $2.95 per kg, reflecting global market trends and logistical challenges.

• Retail Price Range: Retail prices shifted upward, with reports indicating an average of $2.41 per pound ($5.31 per kg) in July 2022, though weekly ranges were between $0.97 and $2.99 per pound ($2.14 to $6.59 per kg).

• Context: Production rebounded slightly, but global supply constraints (e.g., lower yields in France and Argentina) pushed prices higher.

2023

• Export Price: Specific export prices are less detailed, but trends suggest a stabilization around $2.50–$2.80 per kg based on market reports. The U.S. remained a key exporter to Canada, Mexico, and Hong Kong.

• Import Price: Import prices were estimated at $2.98 per kg, showing a slight increase from 2022.

• Retail Price: By December 2023, prices reached approximately $4,170 per metric ton ($4.17 per kg), reflecting a significant jump attributed to rising production costs and demand for organic and specialty varieties.

• Context: The market saw increased demand for plums due to their nutritional benefits, with consumption growing steadily.

2024

• Export Price: Projections suggest export prices remained around $2.80–$3.00 per kg, with the U.S. market valued at $656 million, a 0.3% increase from 2023.

• Import Price: Import prices were forecasted at $3.01 per kg, continuing the upward trend due to stable demand and slight supply growth.

• Wholesale Price Range: Wholesale prices ranged between $1.35 and $2.03 per kg ($0.61 to $0.92 per pound), while retail prices likely stayed between $2.00 and $3.50 per kg, depending on region.

• Context: The U.S. plum and sloe market continued its fourth year of growth, with imports soaring from Chile and South Africa, though yields per hectare slightly declined.

2025 

• Projected Prices: As of early 2025, the market size is estimated at $21.91 billion globally, with the U.S. contributing significantly. Retail prices are expected to hover between $2.50 and $3.80 per kg, reflecting inflation and sustained demand.

• Trends: The Plums and Sloes Market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.8% from 2025 to 2030, suggesting prices could rise further. Wholesale prices may increase to $1.50–$2.20 per kg by year-end.

• Context: With only two months of data available, prices are influenced by early season supply and ongoing consumer preference for healthy, organic produce.

Observations

• Trend: Prices have generally increased from 2020 to 2025, with a notable spike in 2022 due to global supply issues. The upward trajectory reflects rising production costs, demand for organic plums, and inflationary pressures.

• Variability: Retail prices show wider ranges due to regional differences (e.g., higher in Washington and New York) and seasonal fluctuations.

• 2025 Outlook: With the year incomplete, prices are projected to rise modestly by year-end, potentially reaching $3.50–$4.00 per kg at retail if demand and supply trends hold.