Top Cantaloupe Producing Countries

Cantaloupe, a sweet, orange-fleshed melon, is widely cultivated in warm regions around the world, with China leading global production by a significant margin, followed by countries such as Turkey, Iran, Egypt, and the United States. The history of cantaloupe farming traces back to ancient times, with its origins believed to be in Persia (modern-day Iran) and parts of Africa and India. From there, cantaloupe spread to the Mediterranean region, where it was cultivated by the Greeks and Romans. The name "cantaloupe" itself comes from the Italian town of Cantalupo, near Rome, where the fruit was introduced from Armenia in the 15th century. Over the centuries, selective breeding and improved agricultural practices helped develop the sweet, fragrant varieties popular today. Modern cantaloupe farming relies on well-drained soils and warm climates, and the fruit is now a staple in both commercial agriculture and home gardens in many countries worldwide.

Data from United Nations FAO Stat