Collection: North America

North America’s hot pepper industry is dominated by Mexico, which produced a record 3.68 million metric tons in 2023 and remains the world’s largest exporter, supplying the US, Canada, and increasingly international markets with fresh jalapeño, serrano, poblano, habanero, and Anaheim peppers.

The United States, historically a leading producer, has seen domestic chili production fall by over 60% in the last decade, to about 175 million pounds in 2022, due to reduced acreage and yields in states like California, Florida, and New Mexico. However, the US is still a global consumer power, importing from Mexico (which accounts for 73% of US imports), Canada, Spain, and the Netherlands to meet consumer demand—particularly for processed hot sauces, salsas, and powders.

 Canada’s greenhouse sector is recognized for its innovation in bell and specialty hot peppers, but is limited by climate, relying on significant imports during winter and exporting mainly to the US. North American favorites include jalapeño, serrano, cayenne, and habanero; hot pepper consumption is closely tied to trends in Mexican cuisine, barbecue, and retail innovation in sauces.