AbstractThis chapter briefly covers the classification and taxonomy of the tomato, genetic variation within the Lycopersicon genus, and the origin, history and uses of the tomato. The general characteristics of fresh and processed tomatoes are mentioned and the types available (classic round; cherry and cocktail; plum and baby plum; beefsteak; and vine or truss) are briefly described. A worldwide overview of today's tomato industry is presented, followed by short descriptions of tomato production in different countries grouped under the following geographical regions: Europe and Turkey (Italy, Spain, Greece and Portugal, Netherlands and Belgium, France, Germany and the UK, and Turkey), South Asia (China, India, Japan and South Korea), North America (USA and Canada), Central and South America (Chile and Mexico, and Brazil), Oceania (Australia and New Zealand) and Africa and the Middle East. Finally, future perspectives for the tomato industry are considered.