North America: increased almond consumption
North America boasts an almond market that is both mature and fully developed. In terms of domestic demand, almond consumption is very high, and the production base is globally significant. North America and, most particularly, the state of California, have a major share of the global market as far as almonds are concerned. California produces more than 80% of the total almonds in the world and more than 30 different cultivars of almonds, although just 10 are economically important for commercial production. Almonds find application in a multitude of food categories, including dairy alternatives, bakery, beverages, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Europe: Emerging Almond Market
Prominent changes have been witnessed in the European almond market during the recent seasons owing to erratic import trends, common production challenges in countries, and changing trade dynamics. In the 2023/2024 season, almond imports into the EU decreased greatly, signalling a correction of the market and limitations on the supply side. As of the current season, approximately 120,215 metric tons of almonds worth EUR 477 million (USD 515 million) have been imported into the EU, over 20% lower than the previous season's 152,713 metric tons worth EUR 620 million (USD 670 million). This marks the lowest import volume in five years and the lowest import value in twelve years, which is significant in indicating the slowdown of sourcing from external sources.
Asia-Pacific: Rapidly Growing Almond Sector
The almond market in the Asia-Pacific region is growing by leaps and bounds with increasing health consciousness and disposable income, and the expanding middle class across countries like China, India, Japan, and Australia. Almonds are emerging as an even more preferred healthy snacking option, given their nutritional profile, especially high protein, high fiber, and good fats. The trend is driven by heavy marketing activities, increasing urbanization, and a substantial shift towards plant-based eating in several regional economies. Almonds are a very important dry fruit in India, culturally and nutritionally, being incorporated into festivities and traditional diets. Thus, consumption is also growing in popularity due to the awareness of health benefits and demand for premium dry fruits. India remains one of the largest importers of almonds, mainly from the United States and Australia, to satisfy domestic demand. The country has witnessed several product launches in the arena of almonds, like almond milk, almond butter, and flour.
Middle East and Africa: Emerging Almond Frontier
The demand for almonds has been steady across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, especially in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa. The emerging demand is for food products with nutritional benefits. Almonds figure prominently in Middle Eastern cuisine and desserts like baklava and almond-stuffed dates, which are now resonating with health-food trends. Consumer trends in the MEA region are slanting toward functional foods and healthy snacking; thus, demand will be favorably impacted for raw, roasted, and processed almonds.
South America: Rapidly Develop Almond
The almond market in South America is defined by growing consumer demand and gradual increments in local production. Almonds have increased in popularity with health-conscious dietary trends, growing disposable incomes, and increased brand awareness due to various marketing campaigns throughout the continent. Among the prominent markets in the region, one has observed drastic growth in almond imports. In FY 2020/21 (August–July), U.S. almond exports to this market grew by 25% compared to the previous year, to 30.2 million pounds. The growth corresponds with the continued marketing efforts funded by the Almond Board of California since 2018, thereby contributing to consumer interest, especially for shelled almonds, which constitute a large share of total almond imports. Other products, such as roasted almonds and in-shell almonds, contribute to the demand.
