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When we think of pumpkin seeds, or “pepitas,” our minds often turn to delicious snacks, salad toppings, and superfoods. But have you ever wondered which country leads the world in producing these nutrient-rich seeds? Let’s dive into the full details below.
Global Leader: China Takes the Crown
China is widely acknowledged as the largest producer of pumpkin seeds in the world. Multiple credible sources underscore this fact:
- A detailed industry overview emphasizes that China dominates both in cultivation area and total yield, contributing over 50% of the global supply of pumpkin seed.
- Another market analysis confirms that China produced approximately 680,000 metric tons of pumpkin seeds in 2024, maintaining its position as the world’s top producer.
Why China Leads
Several factors work in China’s favor:
- Vast agricultural land allocated specifically for seed-producing pumpkin varieties.
- Modern farming methods—from hybrid seeds to mechanized harvesting—boost both yield and quality.
- Robust export infrastructure, enabling effective cleaning, sorting, and packaging for global markets.
- Affordable rural labor, which supports labor-intensive processes like seed extraction.
- Government backing through subsidies and policies favorable to high-value, export-oriented agriculture.
These combined advantages have solidified China’s supremacy in the pumpkin seed industry.
Other Notable Producers — A Look Beyond China
Although China dominates, several other countries play important roles:
India
- Emerging as the second-largest producer, India is witnessing a rapid rise in pumpkin seed production, estimated around 200,000 metric tons in 2025.
- Much of India’s production serves domestic consumption, though some players are tapping export markets with premium varieties.
United States
- Ranked third globally, the U.S. produced an estimated 150,000 metric tons in 2025.
- States like Illinois and California lead in output, alongside growing interest in sustainable and organic production methods.
Mexico, Russia, Ukraine, Argentina
- Mexico is fourth with about 120,000 metric tons, known for traditional culinary uses like pepitas.
- Russia follows with around 100,000 metric tons.
- Argentina contributes a respectable 80,000 metric tons.
- Ukraine rounds out the list with 70,000 metric tons.
Visual Snapshot: Top Producers by Estimated 2025 Production
| Rank | Country | Estimated Output (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | China | ~300,000 metric tons |
| 2 | India | ~200,000 metric tons |
| 3 | United States | ~150,000 metric tons |
| 4 | Mexico | ~120,000 metric tons |
| 5 | Russia | ~100,000 metric tons |
| 6 | Argentina | ~80,000 metric tons |
| 7 | Ukraine | ~70,000 metric tons |
(Note: Estimates based on industry reports projected for 2025)
Why Production Numbers Matter
Consumer Health & Nutrition
Pumpkin seeds are nutritional powerhouses—rich in healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals—which has fueled global demand in snacks, health foods, and wellness products.
Global Trade & Economics
China’s massive share in production also translates to being a dominant exporter. Other countries, like India and Mexico, are gaining traction by offering specialty varieties and tapping export markets.
Sustainability and Quality Trends
- China faces challenges like soil degradation, pesticide overuse, and climate-related yield shifts, leading to a gradual move toward organic farming, sustainable practices, and eco-certifications
- European players like Austria and Poland specialize in high-value GWS-type pumpkin seeds and oils, often commanding premium prices despite lower volumes
Final Takeaway
- China unequivocally holds the title of the world’s largest pumpkin seed produces.
- It is followed by rapidly rising India, the well-established U.S., and traditional producers such as Mexico, Russia, Argentina, and Ukraine.
- Beyond raw production, factors like quality, sustainability, and specialty markets add dimensions to the global seed economy.