Nut production is expected to rebound in the 2025/2026 season, which began in September, following two years of decline caused by frost and drought. This forecast was discussed with the sector during a meeting led by Ana RodrÃguez, the Secretary General for Agricultural Resources and Food Safety. The meeting also reviewed the initial findings for the 2025/2026 season.
Estimates suggest that almond in-shell production, which makes up 84% of Spain's nut cultivation area, could reach 467,521 tons. This would be a 24% increase compared to the 2024/2025 season and an 8% rise over the average of the past five seasons, based on the June crop area and production previews (latest data available). If confirmed, this would be the highest production level ever recorded.
The meeting also reviewed forecasts for hazelnuts and pistachios, crops for which estimates for the 2025/2026 season are now available for the first time since June. These forecasts also indicate a significant increase in production.
Additionally, the expansion of land devoted to these nut crops suggests that, given the time needed to start production, almond output could grow by 13% (and by 20.5% under irrigated conditions), walnut production by 18%, and pistachios by 60%. All of these are still awaiting the start of production.
Regarding the financial balance of the previous season, the value generated by almond exports is notably high, surpassing 300 million euros, representing a 58% increase compared to the previous year, and reaching an all-time high. Almonds account for 90% of the value of Spanish nut exports. Both European and non-EU markets, including Turkey and Egypt, experienced growth of over 20%.
The meeting also addressed key phytosanitary agreements related to nut exports and imports, including their origins and inspection results. The Secretary General shared updates on ongoing negotiations with Chinese authorities regarding pistachio exports. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food is currently reviewing the draft phytosanitary protocol for pistachios and will hold technical discussions with industry stakeholders.
Household nut consumption data was analyzed, showing a generally positive trend last season. However, nuts in shell have become less popular compared to shelled nuts.
