W11 Almond Update: Feb-24 Almond Shipments in the US Decreased, Invasive Beetle Species Damaging Almond Crops in California
In W11 in the almond landscape, CAB reported a 10% YoY decrease in almond shipments in its February Position report. The decline was anticipated, given the exceptional shipments recorded in Feb-23. In particular, the exports to India decreased significantly from 34.2 million lbs to 27.0 million lbs. In addition, ABC’s Global Technical and Regulatory Affairs team shared updates on their successful annual India Trade Show and an exploratory trip to Pakistan, where they discovered strong almond-related traditions in the region. Lastly, a new invasive beetle species was found infesting almond crops in the Central Valley region of the US. Emergency action is needed to prevent further infection.
California Almond Board Reports 10% YoY Decrease in Almond Shipments in Feb-24
The Almond Board of California (ABC) released its February Position report, revealing a decrease in almond shipments by 10% year-on-year (YoY). This decline was anticipated, given the exceptional shipments recorded last year. Domestic shipments showed a slight increase of 2.3% YoY, and exports experienced a decrease of 13.8% YoY. Exports to India decreased from 34.2 million pounds (lbs) to 27.0 million lbs, while Spain saw a slight increase from 17.5 million to 20.3 million lbs. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) remained relatively stable at 14.3 million lbs. Germany grew from 9.0 million to 11.4 million lbs, while China decreased significantly from 21.8 million to 5.4 million lbs.
Additionally, ABC forecasts positive shipments in Mar-24. Sufficient rainfall in California at the beginning of this month, particularly in the Tahoe area, has bolstered snowpack and water reservoirs, promising ample water supply for agriculture. As the almond industry navigates market dynamics and weather patterns, stakeholders remain cautiously optimistic about the season ahead, with hopes for continued stability and growth in almond production and exports.
ABC’s Global Technical and Regulatory Affairs Team Shares Updates on India Trade Show and Pakistan Trip
In Mar-24, ABC’s Global Technical and Regulatory Affairs team shared their latest updates, highlighting the successful annual India Trade Show, where the board conducted workshops at Gulfood that generated interest in almonds from new markets. Additionally, the team made their first exploratory trip to Pakistan, where they discovered the strong almond-related traditions in the region.
Concerns Raised over Invasive Beetle Species Damaging Almond Crops in California
In Feb-24, a representative from California’s 9th Congressional District expressed concern over the spread of an invasive beetle species called Carpophilus, also known as invasive almond beetles. These beetles have been discovered infesting almonds and pistachios in California's Central Valley region, causing extensive crop damage. The beetles bore tiny holes into developing nuts, feeding on the kernels inside and leaving behind tunnels and a powdery mix of nutmeat and frass. These pests can survive through the winter in the soil and inside unharvested leftover nuts known as "mummy nuts," posing a significant threat to other crops beyond almonds, walnuts, and pistachios. The representative has urged the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to take action and aid farmers in dealing with this invasive species before it leads to irreversible damage.
