Macadamias: crop just as predicted

December 4, 2023 at 11:16 AM , Der AUDITOR
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WOLLONGBAR/BRUSSELS. Australia’s macadamia crop has finished right in line with expectations as the Australian Macadamia Society (AMS) reports.

Right on track

Most recent forecasts for in-shell macadamias with a 3.5% moisture ranged at 48,500 mt in September and judging by factory receipts the Australian Macadamia Handlers Association (AMHA) has noted production comes in very close at 48,400 mt. For in-shells with a moisture of 10% figures range at 51,900 mt and 52,000 mt respectively. This is only 8% down on last year’s record crop, which came in at 56,800 mt for in-shells with a 10% moisture. AMS also states that kernel quality is excellent. Growers have, however, experienced a challenging year as yields were lower than expected and farmgate prices declined. Prospects for 2024 are highly encouraging as weather conditions were good for flowering in early spring and many new trees will start to bear fruit.

Attractive prices boost EU imports

EU macadamia nut imports reached a record 7,610 mt in January to November, which is 14% up on the same period last year. In terms of value imports have, by contrast, dipped to a nine-year low of EUR 60.268 million (USD 65.544 million), which is 34% down on than last year. South Africa is the most important supplying country, followed by Kenya and Australia. The Netherlands presently account for 35% of all EU imports, followed by Germany with 25% and Luxembourg with 17%.

EU macadamia nut imports (kg)

Country

2022

2023

Diff.

South Africa

2,993,837

3,856,128

28.8%

Kenya

1,995,993

1,856,579

-7.0%

Australia

840,675

915,070

8.8%

Guatemala

262,269

526,887

100.9%

Malawi

375,206

357,643

-4.7%

Vietnam

75,688

43,136

-43.1%

USA

196

27,651

-

Brazil

1

16,714

-

Paraguay

3,379

3,969

17.5%

Senegal

44,774

1,322

-97.1%

Others

41,293

5,426

-26.9%

Total

6,633,311

7,610,525

14.0%

Provisional data DG TAXUD Customs Surveillance, 01/01-30/11/23
HS Code 08026200 Fresh or dried macadamia nuts, shelled

 

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