Top Sisal Producing Countries

Sisal (Agave sisalana) is a hardy, drought-resistant plant cultivated primarily for its strong, durable fibers, which are used in products such as ropes, twines, and mats. The top sisal-producing countries today are Brazil, Tanzania, Kenya, Madagascar, and China. Sisal’s journey as a commercial crop began in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico, where it was domesticated by the Maya and later exported globally in the 19th century. The plant was introduced to East Africa in the late 19th and early 20th centuries by colonial powers, especially the Germans and British, who saw its potential for industrial fiber production. Brazil later became a leading producer due to its suitable climate and large-scale plantations. Today, sisal farming remains an important economic activity in these regions, providing livelihoods for thousands of farmers and contributing significantly to the global natural fiber market.

Data from United Nations FAO Stat