PUBLISHER: Mordor Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 2114063
PUBLISHER: Mordor Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 2114063
According to Mordor Intelligence, the fresh pumpkin market size is expected to grow from USD 2.89 billion in 2025 to USD 2.99 billion in 2026 and is forecast to reach USD 3.53 billion by 2031 at 3.39% CAGR over 2026-2031.

This report is Segmented by Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and More). The Report Includes Production Analysis (Volume), Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value), Import Analysis (Volume and Value), Export Analysis (Volume and Value), and Price Trend Analysis. The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Both Value (USD) and Volume (Metric Tons).
Wellness positioning has transformed pumpkin into a year-round functional ingredient within the fresh pumpkin market. Seed-protein isolates achieve extraction yields of 25%-35%, while ultrasound combined with pH-shift treatments enhances solubility to 69.1%, comparable to that of soy protein . Pumpkin puree's low glycemic index enables bakers to reduce refined sugar without compromising texture, and its high carotenoid content supports front-of-pack vitamin A claims. In North America, retail buyers increasingly request detailed nutrient profiles during category reviews, driving the adoption of pumpkin seed protein in plant-based meat and dairy products.
Halloween and Thanksgiving continue to sustain the visibility of the fresh pumpkin market, though the seasonal demand period is expanding. In the United States, pumpkin-flavored product launches now commence as early as late August, with restaurants incorporating pumpkin spice into cocktails, pasta dishes, and breakfast menus. Illinois remains the leader in pumpkin processing. In Europe, urban centers are experiencing double-digit growth in the adoption of carved-pumpkin traditions, while social media drives increased experimentation with pumpkin-based recipes. To capitalize on this visibility, suppliers are emphasizing premium, organic, and heirloom varieties and leveraging direct-to-consumer shipping models to minimize their reliance on commodity pricing.
Up to 30% of harvested pumpkins in Africa and South Asia spoil before reaching markets due to inadequate rural roads, limited access to cold storage facilities, and insufficient availability of fungicides. According to the FAO, reducing such waste by half could lower agricultural greenhouse gas emissions by 4% and decrease food prices by up to 10% in low-income countries. Pilot initiatives, such as solar-powered cold rooms and ventilated crates, have reduced losses to single-digit percentages. Additionally, fragmented extension services hinder training on techniques such as rapid drying and mildew prevention. Reducing post-harvest losses is therefore a critical cost-saving measure, but it requires the development of integrated infrastructure and agronomic support.
Other drivers and restraints analyzed in the detailed report include:
For complete list of drivers and restraints, kindly check the Table Of Contents.
By geography, the Asia-Pacific captured 50.20% of the fresh pumpkin market share in 2025. The Asia-Pacific region dominates the fresh pumpkin market, with China accounting for a significant share of global production and consuming most of its harvest in fresh and dried forms. India and Indonesia have expanded cultivation areas through nutrition-focused subsidy programs. Although inconsistent monsoons and limited irrigation constrain yield potential. In China, advancements in ultrasound protein extraction technology have enhanced localized value addition, reducing raw seed exports.
North America ranks second in value, largely due to a cultural attachment to autumn rituals. Fields in Illinois, located within 45 miles of Morton, produce yields that are 5,000-25,000 pounds higher per acre than the national average, contributing to Libby's cost advantage. Europe's market remains fragmented. Germany's Styria region holds a protected geographical indication (PGI) status for premium pumpkin seed oil. Additionally, pilot biorefineries in Germany and the Netherlands are converting processing residues into bio-composite films. The European Union's sustainability due diligence directive requires importers to document smallholder traceability, increasing compliance costs while benefiting certified exporters.
Africa, growing at a 3.88% CAGR, is supported by the intensification of Egypt's Nile Delta and seed-export corridors from Malawi. In South Africa, commercial farms are adopting drip irrigation and solar-powered cold rooms to reduce spoilage and meet regional export demand. South America and the Middle East are niche yet strategically significant regions. In the Middle East, Turkey dominates production, catering to domestic culinary needs, while Saudi Arabia is experimenting with greenhouse pumpkin cultivation as part of its food security initiatives, despite water scarcity issues.