1. Weekly News

India

INC Releases 2025/26 Peanut Outlook as Indian Prices Stabilize

The International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC) released its 2025/26 peanut production estimates in early May-25. In India, prices have remained stable despite earlier fears of sharp declines. Government stock sales, totaling around 150,000 metric tons (mt), have supported the market, and expectations of higher pricing in future sales rounds may lead to increased farmer sales and upward price pressure.

Andhra Pradesh Farmers Gear Up for Kharif Peanut Cultivation Amid Early Monsoon and Pending Financial Aid

With the anticipated early arrival of a monsoon, farmers in Andhra Pradesh are actively preparing their fields for the Kharif season, including the cultivation of peanuts. In Krishna and Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR) districts, peanuts are among the key oilseed crops, alongside sunflower and maize. Cultivation across these districts is expected to cover approximately 600,000 acres, consistent with the previous season's figures. Farmers have already commenced land preparation and broadcast seeding, taking advantage of the favorable weather outlook.

However, uncertainty remains around the disbursement of promised financial aid under the Annadata Sukhibhava scheme, a state welfare initiative aimed at providing direct financial assistance to farmers. However, disbursement delays may impact input procurement. While central funds under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme have been released, the state is yet to issue guidelines or release corresponding support funds. An announcement is expected shortly.

Pre-Monsoon Rains Disrupt Peanut Harvest and Kharif Preparations in South-Central Maharashtra

The South-Central Maharashtra region, including Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, and Solapur districts, has experienced intense pre-monsoon rains over the past several days, disrupting agricultural activities. Heavy rainfall, accompanied by gusty winds and lightning, has particularly affected Kolhapur and Satara districts, with red and orange alerts issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

These untimely rains have damaged ready-to-harvest crops such as peanuts, cashews, mangoes, and grapes. Farmers face difficulties in harvesting and are uncertain whether to continue sowing due to waterlogged fields. The persistent rainfall has halted pre-sowing cultivation and caused severe crop damage potentially impacting yield and farmer incomes. Additionally, heavy rains triggered landslides in the region, causing traffic disruptions but no casualties. The overall weather conditions pose significant challenges for the ongoing Kharif season preparations and crop management in the affected districts.

United States

Southwest US Peanut Planting Begins Amid Improved Moisture, Early Weed Pressure, and Market Uncertainty

The United States (US) peanut planting across the Southwest is underway following substantial Apr-25 rainfall that improved soil moisture and alleviated the need for early irrigation. However, the excess moisture has delayed planting in some areas and triggered early weed emergence, particularly Palmer amaranth, creating new management challenges. Farmers are actively applying residual herbicides before crop emergence, as postemergence options remain limited.

Despite improved early-season conditions, agronomists caution that consistent rainfall will be essential, especially during the typically dry summer months. Disease pressure remains uncertain but manageable if growers maintain strong scouting and early intervention practices. Acreage in Oklahoma is expected to rise slightly to around 18,000 acres, while Texas may see a modest decline from last year’s 237,000 acres. Spanish peanut varieties continue to dominate plantings in both states. Profit margins may be tighter this season due to lower contract prices, particularly for Spanish and runner types, and potential increases in input costs if wet conditions persist. Nonetheless, early signs point to a more favorable start than in recent years.

2. Weekly Pricing

Weekly Peanut Pricing Important Exporters (USD/kg)

Yearly Change in Peanut Pricing Important Exporters (W21 2024 to W21 2025) 

United States

In W21, US peanut prices rose by 9.80% week-on-week (WoW) to USD 0.56 per kilogram (kg), despite a 9.68% year-on-year (YoY) decline from USD 0.62/kg. The WoW gain reflects short-term supply concerns linked to planting delays and early weed pressure following heavy Apr-25 rainfall. While soil moisture has improved, excess rain has hindered fieldwork and raised production risks. Continued weather disruptions could limit acreage progress and support further price increases in the near term.

Brazil

In W21, Brazil's peanut prices rose by 3.55% WoW to USD 3.2/kg, marking a substantial 32.10% YoY increase from USD 2.43/kg. This WoW increase reflects short-term market strength, likely driven by tightening supply conditions and weather-related harvest concerns. Persistent rainfall across key growing regions poses a significant risk to the ongoing harvest, with concerns over potential delays and crop damage. Should adverse weather conditions persist, reduced availability could offset the previous W28’s downward correction in prices and exert upward pressure on market rates in the medium term.

3. Actionable Recommendations

Enhance Resilience in Indian Peanut Production

State authorities should expedite the disbursement of Annadata Sukhibhava scheme funds and issue clear implementation guidelines to ensure farmers can access critical inputs ahead of the Kharif season. This will stabilize cultivation in Andhra Pradesh and minimize delays caused by financial uncertainty, especially in districts already engaged in land preparation.

Mitigate Crop Losses Through Climate-Adapted Infrastructure and Advisory Services

In Maharashtra and other high-risk regions, government agencies and cooperatives should invest in localized drainage infrastructure and scale up farmer access to climate advisory services. These measures will help reduce crop losses from untimely rainfall, support recovery of damaged peanut harvests, and improve preparedness for future weather disruptions.

Support Market Stability Through Strategic Stock Management and Price Monitoring

With global peanut prices showing signs of upward pressure, especially in Brazil, Indian policymakers and exporters should closely monitor international price trends and manage government-held peanut stocks strategically. Timed releases and transparent auction practices can prevent domestic price shocks and maintain competitiveness in export markets.

Sources: Tridge, Farm Progress, Mundus Agri, The News Indian Express