String beans, also known as green beans or snap beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), are widely cultivated around the world, with China, Indonesia, India, Turkey, and Egypt ranking among the top producers. The domestication of string beans traces back thousands of years to Central and South America, where indigenous peoples first cultivated various Phaseolus species for their edible pods and seeds. Spanish and Portuguese explorers introduced string beans to Europe in the 16th century, from where they quickly spread to Africa and Asia due to their adaptability and nutritional value. Over time, selective breeding led to the development of modern string bean varieties, prized for their tender, stringless pods. Today, China dominates global production, accounting for a significant share of the world’s supply, while other countries continue to expand cultivation to meet growing demand for this versatile vegetable.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | United States of America | 685,995 |
2 | Morocco | 127,520 |
3 | Mexico | 122,688 |
4 | Philippines | 108,781 |
5 | Turkey | 76,245 |
6 | Argentina | 50,051 |
7 | Japan | 36,407 |
8 | Malawi | 35,110 |
9 | Peru | 27,232 |
10.5 | China | 9,914 |
10.5 | China Taiwan | 9,914 |
12 | Jordan | 8,535 |
13 | Venezuela | 6,079 |
14 | Jamaica | 5,327 |
15 | Cote d Ivoire | 4,846 |
16 | Iraq | 4,677 |
Data from United Nations FAO Stat