Demand for coconut water in Europe is driven by the increasing demand for functional and low-calorie drinks. Coconut is perceived to be a natural low-energy sports drink that helps rehydration. Also, coconut water is increasingly used as an ingredient in the beverage industry. Opportunities for new suppliers can be found in the United Kingdom, the largest European coconut water market. Growing markets include Germany, France, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands.

Europe offers a growing market for table dates, and imports cover almost all demand. France, Germany and the United Kingdom are the largest markets. The Netherlands, Italy and Spain also offer good opportunities. Demand is supported by healthy snacking, Ramadan, winter holidays and trends regarding eating less sugar. There is a lot of competition, especially from Tunisia, Algeria, Israel and Iran. Suppliers can add value through organic dates, Medjool dates, date paste and date syrup.

Europe’s dried mango market is recovering after a temporary slowdown. Dried mangoes are seen as a healthy and tasty replacement for sugary snacks. European imports reached around 9,000 tonnes in 2024. Dried mango used to be a niche product. Today, it can be found in mainstream supermarkets across the United Kingdom, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Spain and Italy. Demand for organic, sulphite-free slices and fairtrade origins from Africa is high. Emerging suppliers can gain an advantage by offering food safety-certified products at competitive prices.

Demand for moringa is increasing in the European market. It has a range of health benefits that makes it appealing to European consumers who are looking for natural health products to improve their health and well-being. There are opportunities for moringa on the European market as the demand for (immune-boosting) food supplements grows and consumers become interested in leading healthier lives and consuming less meat. However, demand is hindered by relatively low consumer awareness of moringa products in Europe.

Exporting aloe vera to Europe offers growing opportunities, driven by rising consumer demand for natural, functional health ingredients. Aloe vera is valued for its digestive and immune-supporting properties. It is used in supplements, beverages and functional foods in key markets like the Netherlands, Germany and Spain. But exporters need to deal with complicated regulations around health claims, increased competition from European producers, and stricter requirements for traceability and sustainability.

Although it is still small, the European market for baobab oil is growing. The increasing use of natural ingredients in cosmetic and personal care products is generating demand for baobab oil. There use of baobab oil is expected to be higher in the coming years. However, growth is being limited by low awareness of baobab oil amongst cosmetic formulators and product developers. Baobab oil is used primarily in the cosmetics sector and can be segmented into conventional and certified baobab oil.

Exotic plant-derived butters, such as mango butter, are popular ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products. Cosmetics companies use mango butter because of its superior moisturising, softening and skin-conditioning properties. It is found in skin-care and hair-care products, colour cosmetics and so on.