W2 Almond Update: US Almond Industry to Expand Exports, Brazil Allows Import of Argentine Almonds, and Ukraine Offers Grants for Almond Cultivation

Published 2024년 1월 19일

US Almond Industry Targets Export Diversification

Led by the Almond Board of California, the United States (US) almond industry is targeting diversification of exports in new and existing markets. The United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) identified export opportunities in Italy and Bulgaria. According to FAS, California almond exports to the two countries are expected to grow by millions of dollars by 2024. India is another market the industry has identified for growth, and the export value is expected to reach USD 1 billion in 2024. India’s removal of retaliatory tariffs on US almonds and other products is already positively impacting the export market.

Brazil to Allow Argentinian Almond Imports in 2024

Brazil granted permission to import almonds from Argentina starting on February 1, 2024. This decision is expected to benefit producers from Mendoza, Neuquén, Rio Negro, Córdoba, San Luis, and San Juan provinces in Argentina. According to the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture, Brazil imported USD 18 million of almonds between Jan-23 and Nov-23, with the US being the leading supplier, accounting for 85% of the total volume, followed by Chile at 13%.

Government Grants for Almond and Rose Hip Cultivation in Ukraine

Government grants in Ukraine are now available for cultivating almonds and rose hips, with different regions having specific eligibility requirements for each crop. The main target of this program is to offer financial aid to legal entities and entrepreneurs involved in the gardening industry and provide financial support for establishing new gardens, berry gardens, and vineyards with irrigation systems. The grant amount ranges from USD 3,640 to 10,400 (UAH 140,000 to 400,000) per hectare (ha), with a maximum of USD 250 thousand (UAH 10 million). This grant covers 70% of the project cost, while the recipient will cover the remaining 30%.