With the rise of global healthy consumption and the acceleration of catering industrialization, basil, as a herb with both flavor and nutrition, has become a new growth point in China's agricultural product foreign trade due to its frozen products' advantages of strong preservation and convenient consumption. In 2026, driven by demand upgrading, supply optimization, and policy empowerment, China's frozen basil foreign trade will show a development trend of "steady growth and quality improvement, and diversified breakthroughs". At the same time, it will also need to face the dual challenges of trade barriers and market competition, achieving high-quality development amidst opportunities and tests.
The primary trend for China's foreign trade of frozen chopped basil in 2026 is the continuous rise in global demand, with the export market further diversifying. In recent years, the global basil market has expanded steadily, and it is expected to exceed USD 3.24 billion by 2030, with an average annual compound growth rate of 8.3%, laying a solid foundation for the export of frozen chopped basil. The European and American markets remain the core demand areas. The popularity of Mediterranean dietary culture has made basil an indispensable ingredient in Western cuisine. Meanwhile, China's frozen chopped basil continues to occupy market shares in Western Europe and North America due to its cost advantage and stable quality. At the same time, emerging markets show great potential. With the diversification of diets in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and other regions, the demand for quick-frozen herbs is increasing year by year, becoming a new growth pole for exports. In addition, thanks to the entry into force of free trade agreements such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), China's exports of frozen chopped basil to ASEAN countries can enjoy tariff concessions, further reducing trade costs and expanding market space.
Supply-side upgrading will become the core driving force for enhancing the quality and efficiency of foreign trade in frozen chopped basil. By 2026, Chinese frozen chopped basil enterprises will accelerate technological innovation and standardization efforts, breaking away from the predicament of exporting primary products. In terms of processing technology, IQF (Individual Quick Freezing) technology is widely adopted, which can maximize the retention of basil's natural color and nutritional components. Some enterprises have also introduced automated production lines to enhance production efficiency and product consistency. In terms of quality control, an increasing number of enterprises have obtained international certifications such as HACCP and EU Organic, establishing a full-chain traceability system from planting to export, meeting the stringent food safety standards of European and American markets. Meanwhile, product forms have become more diversified. In addition to traditional frozen chopped basil leaves and basil cubes, customized packaging, seasoned basil, and other products have emerged to meet the diverse consumer demands of different markets, thereby enhancing product added value.
The innovative iteration of foreign trade models will become a new highlight in industry development. In 2026, foreign trade orders will show a trend of fragmentation, with small orders and trial orders becoming mainstream. Chinese frozen crushed basil enterprises will adapt to this change, optimize the response speed of the supply chain, achieve fast response for small orders, and reduce the risk of customer cooperation. Customer acquisition methods will be fully online, and enterprises will no longer rely on traditional exhibitions. Instead, they will showcase their products through channels such as AliExpress and overseas social media, connect with global small and medium-sized buyers, and tap into potential orders. In addition, with the rise of young purchasing groups, enterprises will visually display the production process and product advantages through short videos, live broadcasts, and other forms, breaking the communication barriers of traditional foreign trade and enhancing customer loyalty.
Post time: Jan-30-2026
