Kenyan Macadamia Nuts Smuggled to China Intercepted, Domestic Supply Increasingly Tight...

According to German media Mundus Agri, Chinese suppliers are facing an export ban on macadamia nuts due to Kenya's severe crackdown on smuggling, while Trump's tariff policies have yet to shake the industry.

Illegal Containers Seized

Local media ntv reported that intelligence agencies seized three 40-foot containers at the Port of Mombasa on June 3rd, containing 27 tons of unprocessed macadamia nuts. Kenya has implemented a strict raw macadamia export ban aimed at protecting farmers and local processing industries while enhancing added value. However, industry representatives have repeatedly warned that this would encourage smuggling. The exporter DLI International Group attempted to smuggle the shipment—valued at $64,300—to China through Mozambique by falsely declaring the goods as "waterproof canvas". Authorities have currently detained the containers in Mombasa for a thorough investigation.

Export Ban Impacts Chinese Market

In recent years, Kenya's macadamia exports to China have continued to grow. Data from the World Macadamia Organization shows that China's annual import volume has surged from 400 tons to 7,600 tons, an increase of nearly 20 times. Domestic Chinese suppliers emphasize that raw material supply is becoming increasingly tight due to Kenya's export ban, with some specifications already sold out. If the ban continues, prices are expected to remain high. Currently, China is the world's second-largest macadamia producer (after South Africa), with Kenya ranking fourth (behind Australia).

Industry Calmly Responds to Trump Tariffs

Meanwhile, the industry remains calm about Trump's tariff policies. Currently, products from South Africa and Kenya face a 10% comprehensive tariff. However, due to the diverse customer base of macadamia suppliers, the impact is relatively limited. US importers also emphasize the importance of supplier diversification—given the difficulty in predicting which countries will face what tariffs. The reality is that the US still needs to rely on imports to meet domestic demand, and the market is expected to absorb small price increases.