More than 1,520 industry professionals from 72 countries attended the 2025 International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC) Congress, held from May 8–10 in Mallorca, Spain. The event provided a platform for stakeholders to exchange insights, assess market trends, and discuss developments across the global nut and dried fruit sectors.
Preliminary data presented during roundtable discussions indicated that global tree nut production for the 2025/26 season is expected to remain steady at approximately 6 million metric tons (kernel basis, with pistachios measured in-shell), consistent with the previous season. Production of macadamias, walnuts, and almonds is forecasted to grow by 9%, 6%, and 2%, respectively. Global peanut production is estimated to increase by 2% year-on-year to 51.5 million metric tons (in-shell basis), while dried fruit production is projected to decline slightly by 2%, to approximately 3.2 million metric tons.
Participants discussed ongoing challenges affecting the industry, including volatile weather conditions, supply chain uncertainty, price pressures, and the impact of tariffs. In response, discussions also highlighted emerging consumer trends, such as increasing demand for healthier, sustainable, and affordable food options. Topics like clean labeling, traceability, and environmentally friendly packaging featured prominently in presentations
A key development at the congress was the introduction of the INC Sustainability Certification, presented by Executive Director Goretti Guasch. The certification aims to improve transparency and demonstrate sustainability practices among member organizations, responding to evolving consumer and retailer expectations.
The congress also featured a range of thematic sessions. A keynote address by Toni Nadal, former coach of tennis player Rafael Nadal, focused on resilience and navigating adversity. The Nutrition Research Seminar shared recent findings on the health benefits of nuts and dried fruits, while a legal panel discussed contract-related matters and regulatory issues facing the sector.
Awards were presented to several individuals and organizations for contributions to the industry. Mercadona was recognized with the Corporate Golden Nut Award, Restaurant Disfrutar for its role in gastronomy, and Dr. David Baer of the USDA for research in the field.
The event also marked a leadership transition within the INC, with Ashok Krishen of ofi, Singapore, appointed as the new chairman, succeeding Michael Waring of MWT Foods, Australia. Krishen outlined key areas of focus for his term, including increasing global consumption, promoting the health benefits of products, and furthering sustainability initiatives.
The congress closed with a collective focus on addressing industry challenges and advancing long-term growth strategies.
For more information:
Chloe Longfield
International Nut and Dried Fruit Council
Tel: +34 977 331 416
Email: [email protected]
www.congress.nutfruit.org