The United States is renowned as the top consumer of candles globally, with consumption on the rise. The average American used 1.8 kilograms of candles last year, whether imported or domestically produced. Candle production in the US also increased by 7% from previous years, totaling 817 million tons in 2021.
China
The Chinese use candles to commemorate holiday occasions and religious events. To send away evil spirits, the Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is a popular occasion to light candles outside of homes. The Lantern Festival is also celebrated every year on 15th of the Chinese calendar. Candles are a popular part of it. Other traditional holidays in China that feature candles are the Hungry Ghost Festival and Mooncake Lampion Festival. Candles are also an age-old part of Buddhist rituals.

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U.S.
According to the National Candle Association (NCA), the U.S. uses more candles than any other country. In fact, the candle industry has seen a recent growth spurt. However, recent tariff increases on imports of candles have lowered store sales.

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UK
According to the World Candle Council, the UK has the highest use of candles in the world. In addition to their traditional decorative uses, candles are also used in wellness rituals such as yoga and spa treatments. Candles are a part of these rituals because of their scent and colour, which provide a calming effect. Candles are also used in many different places around the home, from bathrooms to bedrooms.

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Denmark
According to the European Candle Association, Denmark uses the most candles per person. Its citizens light a candle every day, and it is estimated that 28% of Danes light one each day. Since 2011, candle use has increased by 24%.

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France
France is one of the most popular markets for candles, with an estimated 1.1 billion candles used annually. Despite recent economic turmoil and social unrest in France, candle sales have remained steady. In 2019, French imports of candles totaled EUR109 million, up from EUR84 million in 2015. Imports from developing countries have increased at a rate of 6.9% per year, and now account for a third of the market. The Netherlands, Poland, Belgium and Poland are the top candle suppliers to France. However, it is possible that France will begin importing candles directly from these countries in the near future.
Germany
The candle market in Germany is flourishing. IndexBox’s latest report shows that Germany’s candle imports have increased by nearly seven percent year-on year, surpassing last year’s $163 million. The country remains a major trade partner with Poland, which provided 58% of Germany’s candle consumption in 2017. Last year, German purchases of candles from Poland increased by 7.0% year-on-year.
Italy
According to the World Economic Forum, Italy is the country that uses the most candles. The country is also one of the leading exporters of candles. Candles made in Italy can be exported to all corners of the globe. In 2020, they were the country’s 15th highest-valued export. The United Kingdom ($4.88M), France (€5.38M) and Greece were its main export destinations. In addition, South Korea and Ireland are among its fastest-growing export markets.
Spain
Scented candles in Spain are a wonderful way to escape the world and keep bugs away. They’re also a popular option for healing ailments. Many herbal scents are used to treat physiological and psychological problems. There are many scented candles that can be used to treat anxiety and depression. These candles have been shown in studies to lower cortisol levels and activate brain chemical to improve mood.