Queretaro Food Exports Grew 21% in 2022

Queretaro food exports revenues reached US$342.1 million between January and September 2022, which represented an annual growth rate of 20.8%. According to Marco Antonio del Prete, Minister of Sustainable Development, this responds to the high levels of efficiency in the production processes of agrifood products. 

Between January and June 2022, the food industry was the sixth largest exporter in the state after manufacturing activities for transport equipment; accessories, electrical appliances and electrical power generation equipment; machinery and equipment; computer equipment and plastic and rubber products.

Del Prete highlighted that the food industry is one of the fastest growing sectors in terms of foreign exports. "This not only adds dynamism but value to our economy because we are producing in pesos and selling in dollars," he said. Some of the most popular products include cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, blackberries, raspberries and blueberries.

The minister highlighted the development of protected agriculture in the region. “Even though the entity is not one of Mexico’s main producers in the matter, it stands out for the efficiency in its production processes,” he stressed. In this regard, from March 21 to 26, 2023, Queretaro hosted the third edition of GreenTech Americas, where 200 exhibitors from 15 countries gathered, as well as 2,400 professionals in protected agriculture.

Wilfred Mohr, Netherlands Ambassador to Mexico, highlighted that his nation is the main developer of horticultural technology in the world and Mexico constitutes its main associate buyer in Latin America.  According to Mohr, on average, Mexico adds 1,500ha of protected agriculture every year. “Protected agriculture is a possible solution to the great challenges the world has in terms of food and climate change, since it aims to produce more with less water,” he stated. 

During the inauguration of GreenTech Americas, Del Prete pointed out that Queretaro has found a very interesting market niche in protected agriculture as it allows a more efficient use of land resources and delivers good results. “We may not be the largest producer, but we are the most efficient in terms of protected agriculture,” he said.