W13 Almond Update: UK Suspends Raw Kernel and In-Shell Almond Tariff from All Origins, Disease Management Tips for US Almond Growers

Published 2024년 4월 3일

In W13 in the almond landscape, the FMD specialist at Valent US advises almond growers to prioritize disease management after the petal fall stage, with early intervention and the use of Quash to combat diseases like rust, scab, and Alternaria effectively. In addition, the almond industry in the Lower Murray region of Australia faces challenges related to water usage, but it remains the most valuable horticultural export in the country. Lastly, the UK has suspended tariffs on raw kernel and in-shell almonds from all origins for at least two years starting April 11, 2024.

UK Suspended Tariffs on Raw Kernel and in-shell Almond from All Origins

The United Kingdom (UK) suspended tariffs on raw kernel and in-shell almonds from all origins for at least two years starting April 11, 2024. The Almond Board of California (ABC) has played a crucial role in this development by providing factual information and trade data to the UK's Nut and Dried Fruit Trade Association (NDFTA). The suspension will allow UK importers to offer a more competitive price on raw almonds to UK processors and, ultimately, consumers.

The tariff on roasted almonds, including flavored almonds and almond flour, is not included in the suspension. ABC has expressed its desire to collaborate with NDFTA to evaluate further tariff suspensions. ABC is also exploring opportunities with other global partners to request additional tariff suspensions to significantly reduce costs for importers and processors and boost demand for California almonds.

Disease Management Tips for Almond Growers in the US

Disease management is a top priority for almond growers in the United States (US), particularly after the petal fall stage. To prevent the spread of rust, scab, and Alternaria, the Field Market Development (FMD) Specialist at Valent US advises early intervention, especially in high-density blocks or areas where diseases have previously occurred. This year, the expert expects increased pressure from Alternaria and Rust and suggests using Quash, a highly effective, broad spectrum triazole fungicide containing metconazole to combat these diseases effectively.

Almond Emerged as the Most Valuable Horticultural Export in Murray, Australia

Almond has become the largest crop grown in the lower Murray, Australia, with over 45 thousand hectares (ha) planted. However, almond farming requires a lot of water, and the Almond Board of Australia is calling to impose a moratorium on new horticultural developments in the lower Murray. Despite this, almonds are now Australia's most valuable horticultural export, generating more than USD 750 million worth of export revenue in 2022/23 alone, and the farmgate value is expected to exceed USD 1.3 billion by 2025.