Market
Raw walnuts in Lebanon function primarily as an import-supplied consumer and food-ingredient market, with substantial imports recorded for both in-shell (HS 080231) and shelled kernels (HS 080232). UN Comtrade-based data show the United States and Chile as major in-shell suppliers and China as a major kernel supplier to Lebanon. A Lebanon-focused mycotoxin study notes that nuts are frequently imported in batches for local processing/packaging and for bulk handling by local shops and roasteries, and reports Ministry of Agriculture inspection/testing for aflatoxins and ochratoxin A prior to admission. Trade execution risk is elevated by Lebanon’s ongoing banking and payments constraints, which can disrupt import settlement and working-capital finance.
Market RoleNet importer
Domestic RoleDomestic consumption market relying on imports for a significant share of supply (in-shell and kernels), with local processing/packaging and roastery channels noted for nuts.
Risks
Trade Finance HighLebanon’s sovereign-banking-currency crisis and banking sector restrictions can prevent timely international payments and access to normal trade finance, disrupting walnut imports and settlement with overseas suppliers.Use robust payment risk controls (e.g., advance payment, confirmed/irrevocable LC where feasible), verify importer solvency, and align payment channels with current banking constraints.
Food Safety HighWalnuts and other nuts are susceptible to mycotoxins (notably aflatoxins and ochratoxin A); Lebanon-specific research reports Ministry of Agriculture inspection/testing of imported nuts, and non-compliance can lead to rejection, recalls, or reputational damage.Require accredited lab COAs for aflatoxins/OTA per lot, implement Codex CXC 59-2005 controls (GAP/GMP/GSP), and enforce moisture and storage controls through the supply chain.
Regulatory Compliance MediumImport clearance is document-intensive (SAD, invoice, bill of lading, packing list, certificate of origin, and product-specific certificates); discrepancies can trigger delays, storage costs, or refusal of release.Run a pre-shipment documentation audit (HS code, origin statements, certificates) and use an experienced customs broker for SAD filing and certificate validation.
Security MediumLebanon has faced repeated crises and conflict-related displacement since late 2024, increasing operational and transport uncertainty that can affect warehousing, inland movement, and business continuity for importers and processors.Maintain contingency routing/warehousing plans, monitor official advisories, and build buffer inventory for critical SKUs.
Climate MediumWater availability constraints and climate change impacts (drought/flood volatility) can reduce domestic agricultural output and increase reliance on imports, tightening supply during regional stress periods.Diversify origins across hemispheres, lock in multi-origin supply contracts, and maintain safety stocks ahead of peak demand periods.
Sustainability- Water scarcity, seasonal rainfall concentration, and climate-driven drought/flood volatility create agricultural water-supply risk affecting tree crops and domestic orchard productivity.
Labor & Social- Child labour and vulnerable refugee/migrant labour risks are documented in Lebanon’s agricultural areas; due diligence is needed for any locally sourced walnuts or local processing facilities using seasonal agricultural labour.