Turkey's hazelnut production could decrease by almost 40%, while Chile's production could double!

The International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC) recently released its latest forecast for global production in the 2025/26 crop season. Turkey, the world's largest hazelnut producer, is expected to produce 500,000 tons in the 2025/26 crop season, a 36% decrease from the previous season and a significant reduction from the 609,000 tons estimated in May of this year. Due to adverse weather conditions, including spring frosts and summer droughts, Turkey is facing a severe reduction in crop yields, with production expected to drop to its lowest level in recent years. Chile and the United States are expected to see hazelnut production increases of 106% and 19%, respectively, reaching 120,700 tons and 106,000 tons. According to INC's forecast, Italy's hazelnut production for the 2025/26 crop season is expected to reach 65,000 tons, a 25% decrease from the previous year. The reduction is mainly due to adverse weather conditions and pest and disease problems, particularly the large-scale infestation of Curculio elephas. In industry news, Ferrero, the world's largest hazelnut buyer, recently offered Turkish farmers a purchase price based on quality grades, ranging from 300 to 310 Turkish Lira per kilogram. Market sources estimate that Ferrero has already purchased approximately 35,000 tons of hazelnuts. Over the past four weeks, as of November 20, the benchmark price for Turkish 11/13 specification Levant quality hazelnuts has fallen by 11% to $1,490 per ton, according to Mintec/Expana, the largest international organization certified by the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) for agricultural food price reports. The market had previously surged to nearly $1,800 per ton, but prices have fallen due to weak demand. Image source: Pixabay 2025 International Fruit and Vegetable Report. All rights reserved. For reprint permissions, please contact the International Fruit and Vegetable Report and credit the source as the International Fruit and Vegetable Report.