Cucumbers are a staple crop in Romania, being cultivated on large areas, especially in the vegetable-growing regions of the south. According to INS data, cucumber production reached approximately 210,000 tons in 2024, up 5% compared to the previous year.

Average annual per capita consumption is estimated at 8 kg, but demand increases during the summer. In the off-season, Romania imports cucumbers mainly from Greece and Turkey, with imports valued at over €15 million in 2024.

Recent trends show greater interest in organic cucumbers and those intended for the processing industry (pickles, preserves). The ready-to-eat segment (packaged salads) is expanding, especially in urban areas.

For farmers, the main challenges are high production costs and limited access to irrigation. Solutions focus on investments in modern greenhouses and joining cooperatives to better capitalize on production.

(Photo: Freepik)