Germany is a leading importer of gums and resins in Europe. Gum arabic, Locust Bean Gum (LBG), frankincense and myrrh are valuable as natural ingredients with unique properties. Gum arabic and LBG stabilise and thicken, whereas frankincense and myrrh are mostly valued for their fragrance. They are versatile ingredients with a wide range of applications in the food, cosmetic and health products industries. As each of these applications requires very specific qualities of the gums, you need to pay extra attention to strict sorting and grading.

Albeit a general decline in volume, Germany remains one of the leaders in per capita consumption of fruit juices in the world. Especially the categories chilled and „not from concentrate“ (NFC) are gaining market against the overall trend, with consecutive growth during the last 5 years. While apple juice stays in the number one spot, followed by orange and multi-flavors, only the flavor mixes show significant gains, nurtured by the ever-growing smoothie segment. This development sheds a light on tropical fruit pulps which provide the main differentiator for the final consumer in this type of products. Also due to changing weather patterns in the world, established importers are looking to broaden their supply base in order to safeguard their ability to supply all year round with competitive prices.

More and more European consumers are interested in non-Western health solutions. Those of an Ayurvedic tradition are often used in conjunction with wider lifestyle choices, encompassing nutrition, exercise and meditation, but products such as shilajit are also used in food supplements outside of this tradition. Cosmetics with shilajit are also marketed in Germany. The German market is less developed than the UK and especially Eastern European markets but does offer opportunities. German market entry can also take place through manufacturers in these other markets.

German walnut consumption has been increasing, as consumers appreciate the many health benefits that exist with this popular tree nut, although there is some evidence that higher prices are impacting on sales levels. Germany has its own walnut production but well over half the market is supplied by imports, and Germany is in fact the world's leading importer. Global production is dominated by the USA and China but significant opportunities exist for importers who are able to supply the market with products of the quality demanded by the trade and consumers. There is some seasonality, particularly for the Christmas period, but demand is fairly consistent throughout the year.

Almond Oil is a niche market in Germany but the flavour is popular so there will be continuing interest in quality almond oils. It can be found in numerous market sectors and product applications. Its use has been driven by the increasing number of natural healthcare products and demand for healthy ingredients. DC exporters can find opportunities by keeping a close watch on the relevant growth sectors in which almond oil features and forming relationships with suppliers of related products.