India presents as an opportunity market: California Walnut Board & Commission

The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released the official 2024 California Walnut Industry Objective Measurement Report in September 2024. According to it, the 2024 California walnut production is forecasted at 670,000 tonne (607,814 MT), down 19% from 2023’s production of 824,000 tonne (747,520 MT). The forecast is based on 370,000 bearing acres, down 4% from 2023’s estimated bearing acreage of 385,000 acres.

The September announcement from USDA provides the industry with an objective crop volume estimate. Using scientific methodologies, USDA field staff counted, measured, weighed, and evaluated thousands of walnuts from major growing regions in July and August for use in a statistical acreage model to establish the annual walnut crop estimate.

Pamela Graviet, Vice President Integrated Marketing, California Walnut Board & Commission tells Incredible World of Hospitality News magazine about the scope she is exploring in India.

Typically, consumption increases each passing year and consequently the production the following year. What led to low productivity of walnuts in 2024 (lower acreage of crop production)? 

The 2024 crop, while estimated smaller than the record-setting crop of 2023, is still a significant volume of walnuts that’s similar in crop size to the 2019 harvest. The harvest has started with favourable weather conditions that will support the high quality that defines California walnuts globally. We don’t expect any impact on the supply chain other than continued increased demand. Additionally, the industry acreage profile shows 54% of the orchards are less than 15 years old, ensuring a solid production base for the future.

Lower supply means higher the chance of competition making inroads into your established and existing sales markets. Your thoughts. 

While the 2024 crop is estimated to be smaller than last year’s record-setting harvest, there still is a significant supply to cover market needs.

How does India feature in among your total distribution of exports? Upcoming plans of promoting California Walnuts in India? 

While India’s consumption of walnuts is rapidly growing, according to statistics from the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council, India’s estimated annual per capita consumption is the lowest of the 20 countries tracked. While a similar population size to China, India’s per person consumption is seventeen times smaller and indicates there is tremendous opportunity for walnuts.  Our plans continue focus on educating consumers, foodservice providers, chefs and food manufacturers about the health benefits and versatility of walnuts in a wide variety of cuisines and day parts.