Greece’s renowned Chios mastic industry is expecting a stronger harvest in 2026, with production estimated at between 200 and 220 metric tons, as demand from the United States and other international markets continues to support one of the country’s most distinctive agricultural exports.
According to the Athens-Macedonian News Agency, George Toumbos, president of the Chios Mastiha Growers Association, attributed the improved outlook to favorable weather conditions during the past winter and summer. Approximately 80% of the island’s annual production is exported to more than 60 countries, with the United States, South Korea and European markets among the principal destinations.
US market and pharmaceutical demand support exports
The United States has become an important destination for Chios mastic, particularly through the pharmaceutical, nutritional supplement and specialty food industries. According to Toumbos, approximately 45% of the association’s total sales involve pharmaceutical companies using mastic as an ingredient in medicinal preparations and dietary supplements.
The product has different applications across international markets. In South Korea, the United States and Europe, demand extends to health-related products, while consumers in the Middle East, Turkey and North Africa traditionally use mastic in confectionery, beverages and other foods.
Recent financial results illustrate the industry’s expanding commercial activity. The Chios Mastiha Growers Association recorded approximately €23 million in turnover in 2024, when annual production was estimated at around 230 tons. Mediterra, the association-backed company responsible for developing and marketing mastic-based products, reported sales of €15.45 million in 2025, compared with €14.25 million in 2024, an increase of approximately 8.4%.
Mediterra has also identified expanding e-commerce operations in the United States, Europe and Asia as a priority, including distribution through major online marketplaces.
Protected Greek product supports Chios economy
Mastic is produced from resin collected from the Pistacia lentiscus tree, cultivated in the traditional mastic villages of southern Chios. Chios mastic, mastic oil and traditional chewing gum have enjoyed European Protected Designation of Origin status since 1997, strengthening their commercial identity internationally.
The growers’ association has approximately 1,700 active producers. Toumbos said producer prices have increased by about 46% over the past decade, while growers receive approximately 80% of the average selling price. The association is also investing in scientific research and collaborations with pharmaceutical companies to develop new applications.
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