US: Hawaii’s famous macadamia nuts threatened by cheaper and undisclosed Australian imports

A proposed law in Hawaii seeks to mandate disclosure of the origin of macadamia nuts used in food products, aiming to protect local farmers and build consumer trust. The measure, if passed, would become effective in January 2026 and would be a step towards preventing the misrepresentation of nuts grown outside of Hawaii as local products. This issue is of significant concern to Hawaii's macadamia nut industry, which has seen a decline in production and struggles with low prices for their nuts due to increased competition from other countries. The proposed solution addresses the challenge of local farmers not being able to find buyers for their nuts and highlights the importance of clear labeling to maintain the value and quality perception of Hawaiian-grown macadamia nuts. The bill also emphasizes the need for improved processing capacity to enhance the competitiveness of locally sourced nuts. The outcome of this legislative move could not only bolster the local agricultural sector but also establish a model for other regions facing similar challenges with their distinct agricultural products.