W1 Almond Update: Argentina and Brazil Forge Almond Export Agreement, While Morocco's Almond Imports Surge Tenfold with North American Dominance

Argentina and Brazil Reach Agreement on Almond Export

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Argentina reached an agreement with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock of Brazil (MAPA) regarding the export of shelled and unshelled almonds starting February 1, 2024. From Jan-23 to Nov-23, Brazil imported 4,255 metric tons (mt) of almonds, valued at USD 18 million. The United States (US) emerged as the primary supplier, contributing 85% of the total imports, followed by Chile at 13%. This newly established trade opportunity holds significant promise for the producing provinces in Argentina, including Mendoza, San Juan, Córdoba, La Rioja, Salta, Río Negro, and Neuquén.

Moreover, MAPA issued phytosanitary requirements for the import of almonds from Argentina on February 1, 2024. According to the new guidelines, all almond imports to Brazil must be accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate from Argentina's National Organization for Phytosanitary Protection (NPPO), declaring the product's inspection. Inspections will be conducted at the entry point, including collecting samples for phytosanitary analysis. The interested party will bear the shipping costs for the inspected material, and the discretion of the inspection will determine whether the party can retain the remainder of the shipment during the inspection process.

Moroccan Almond Imports Increase Tenfold, with North America Dominating Supply

From Jan-23 to Oct-23, Morocco experienced a 12% year-on-year (YoY) increase in tree nut imports, totaling 66 thousand mt. Almonds, walnuts, and raisins dominate Morocco's top three import categories, with almond purchases showing a nearly tenfold increase. The US is the primary supplier of almonds and walnuts to the Moroccan market, particularly in the almond segment, where North American exporters dominate, supplying almost the entire volume of Moroccan imports. It is worth noting that Morocco wholly depends on nuts and dried fruit imports.