Macadamias: China drives production
December 10, 2025 at 11:24 AM ,
Der AUDITOR
Bumper crop in China
Global in-shell production has risen by 7% to 346,900 mt over last year and kernel production is 9% up at 95,455 mt. With a bumper crop exceeding 100,000 mt China now tops the chart according to the Chinese Chamber of Commerce. By contrast, weather disruptions causing reduced yields and nut sizes have prompted Macadamias South Africa (SAMAC) to lower the production estimates for this year’s crop. Yet, the long-term outlook is rather encouraging as acreage is expanding and orchards are maturing.
Crop not quite as bad as expected in Australia
In addition, the Australian Macadamia Society has recently issued the final estimate for the 2025 crop, which is not quite as bad as the 37,300-41,970 mt expected in July. Yet, heavy and prolonged rains have put a dent on production with many growers reporting the smallest crops in over ten years in New South Wales and Queensland. Contrary to this, production exceeded a record 30,000 mt in Bundaberg due to younger trees approaching full maturity. As conditions have been favourable so far the outlook for 2026 is cautiously optimistic.
Kenya started the harvest season with good quality, which later eased. Production has, however, climbed by 8% in line with expectations. The 2026 crop should be solid.
Strong export market
Kernel prices have risen this year with the UK, the EU and China acting as key markets, whereas tariffs and carry-over stocks are still rendering sales difficult in the US. Demand is on the rise in India and Southeast Asia.
|
Global macadamia production, in-shell basis (mt) |
|||
|
Country |
2024 |
2025 |
Diff. |
|
China |
69,500 |
104,000 |
49.6% |
|
South Africa |
89,000 |
83,400 |
-6.3% |
|
Australia |
53,950 |
43,800* |
-18.8% |
|
Kenya |
44,000 |
47,500 |
7.6% |
|
USA |
15,000 |
15,500 |
3.3% |
|
Guatemala |
10,000 |
12,000 |
20.0% |
|
Malawi |
8,700 |
10,000 |
14.9% |
|
Vietnam |
8,000 |
8,000 |
0.0% |
|
Brazil |
6,500 |
4,500 |
-30.8% |
|
Others |
17,100 |
18,200 |
6.4% |
|
Total |
324,550 |
346,900 |
6.9% |
|
China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Foodstuffs, Macadamias South Africa, Australian Macadamia Society, Brazilian Macadamia Association, and other INC sources, 3.55 nut-in-shell moisture content |
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