Tariffs and Trade Take the Spotlight at Global Nut Summit

Industry Leaders Call for Pragmatic Policies to Support Growth

8 May 2025, South Africa – As more than 1,500 leaders from the global nut and dried fruit industry gather this week in Mallorca, Spain for the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC) Congress, international trade policy – particularly tariffs – has emerged as a key topic of discussion.

Recent shifts in trade dynamics, including changes to U.S. tariff structures, are being closely monitored by exporting countries like South Africa, the world’s largest producer and exporter of macadamias. While the U.S. remains a vital market for premium-quality macadamias, evolving tariff measures have created new complexities for producers.

South African macadamias are currently subject to a 10% ad valorem duty in the U.S., down from an earlier 30%. Although a proposed additional hike has been paused, exporters and processors are navigating an increasingly competitive global market. Still, the broader industry remains resilient: global supply for macadamias in 2025 is generally well sold, and prices have held steady.

“These discussions are not about placing blame, but about finding solutions that work for all stakeholders,” said Alex Whyte, Executive at Green Farms Nut Company. “We recognise the U.S. has its priorities, but there’s mutual benefit in making high-quality imports accessible to American consumers and manufacturers.”

With American production unable to meet its own growing demand for macadamias, imported nuts play a critical role in supporting a wide range of U.S. food brands. At the same time, producers in exporting countries like South Africa face rising costs and infrastructure demands tied to meeting that demand -particularly in rural areas where the nut sector provides thousands of jobs and sustains communities.

While the U.S. remains a key focus, industry leaders are also looking to expand market access across Asia and the EU. Tariffs in China (currently 12%), India (30%), and South Korea (30%) are being highlighted as areas where dialogue could open growth opportunities. Australia, for instance, will benefit from zero-duty access to India under new agreements – an example of how trade policy can be a tool for unlocking win-win outcomes.

“Ultimately, it’s not about one market or another,” Whyte said. “It’s about creating fair conditions globally so we can invest, expand, and keep the industry sustainable long-term. We’re seeing increased engagement across the board, from the U.S. to the EU to Asia, and that’s encouraging.”

The INC summit comes at a time of broader international reflection on trade. The EU recently delayed the reintroduction of tariffs on U.S. agricultural imports, signalling a desire to keep negotiations alive. With stakeholders from across continents in attendance, the congress offers an important platform for advancing conversations that balance domestic priorities with global collaboration.

South Africa, for its part, continues to advocate for more inclusive trade terms—not just in the U.S., but with major partners across Asia. The aim is to ensure the long-term viability of an industry that contributes over R5.4 billion to South Africa’s GDP and supports an estimated 80,000 jobs.

“There’s a real opportunity here,” concluded Whyte. “The global appetite for quality, sustainable macadamias are strong. With practical, well-balanced trade policy, everyone stands to benefit.” As the INC Congress continues through May 10, participants remain optimistic that diplomacy and shared interest will guide the way forward for the global nut industry.

Ends

Annelle Whyte, Communications, annelle@kokoandtree.co.za, 0711638719, www.gfnc.co.za

Tariffs and Trade Take the Spotlight at Global Nut Summit

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