Which Country Produces The Most Lemons And Limes In The World?

Who can imagine a world without lemons or limes? From the zest that brightens up a creamy pasta to the tang that balances the sweetness of a margarita, these citrus fruits are small but bursting with mighty flavor. They're a key ingredient in cuisines across the globe, from Asian curries to Latin American ceviche, and the duo are the MVPs behind some of the best citrus cocktails. But have you ever wondered which country grows the most of these beloved fruits? If your first guess is Italy, home of the famous limoncello, you're not alone. While Italy may shine in iconic dishes, it's not the global leader in citrus production. According to Statista, the title of top lemon and lime producer goes to Mexico.

What makes Mexico so good at growing citrus? The country's warm weather, rich soil, and steady irrigation make it great for growing lemons and limes. "It's not really surprising that Mexico is the biggest producer of lemons and limes," says Chef Iliana de la Vega, an award-winning Mexican-born chef and owner of El Naranjo, a traditional Mexican restaurant in the heart of Austin, Texas. "Veracruz, which is the state with the largest production of limes and lemons in Mexico, has the perfect weather for citrus. Following Veracruz are the State of Michoacán, Oaxaca, and a little state by the name of Colima." Behind Mexico, the top global producers include Argentina, the European Union, Turkey, and the United States, rounding out the world's top five.

They're not just pretty and vibrant decorative props in a fruit bowl — lemons and limes may be small, but the demand for them is massive. These citrus fruits are among the most underrated yet versatile ingredients in both the kitchen and behind the bar. But in Mexican cuisine, citrus isn't treated like a background player, it takes center stage. Limes, in particular, are used to marinate meats, brighten guacamole, balance the heat in salsas, and elevate seafood dishes like ceviche.

It's no surprise the country leads the world in lime production, yielding over 3 million metric tons annually, per the USDA. "The addition of lime or lemon in a recipe brings new tones to the dish, the acidity calls for summertime," de la Vega told Tasting Table. "Even just a few drops or a little zest makes the flavor vibrant and fresh. As for drinks, one of the most consumed is the margarita, but also lemonade and limeade." So the next time you squeeze a bright green wedge or golden slice over your food or drink, chances are you're adding a splash of Mexico's sunshine, soul, and serious flavor to your plate.