Australian almond growers are positioned to gain from the ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China. The current geopolitical climate offers Australian producers a chance to exploit the existing free trade agreement with China. As the US imposed substantial levies on Chinese imports, China reciprocated with tariffs, including an additional 10% on Californian almonds, raising total tariffs to 35%.
Tim Jackson, CEO of the Almond Board of Australia, noted that these tariffs provide Australian almond growers with enhanced opportunities in a major global market. He stated, "The trade agreements our federal governments have delivered have made a huge difference to grower returns. The retaliatory tariffs tend to accentuate that advantage."
Jackson further commented on market dynamics, suggesting that economic forces will guide buyers toward more cost-effective supply origins. Amid these uncertainties, the Australian almond sector remains focused on strengthening its global brand presence.
In a move to bolster international branding efforts, Australia Almonds appointed chef Poh Ling Yeow and Olympic swimmer Kyle Chalmers as Global Ambassadors. Chalmers expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "I am super excited to be partnering with Australian Almonds. For me, it makes a lot of sense – they are something I eat every single day in my diet."
Chalmers' role aims to connect consumers worldwide with Australian almonds, highlighting their quality and health benefits. Jackson emphasized the strategic timing of Chalmers's joining, as it aligns with efforts to promote Australian almonds globally. He remarked, "Kyle joins us at a time when we have an opportunity to leverage our prominence in the market and take our message on the advantages of buying Australian almonds to a broader cohort."
Despite the global reliance on Californian almonds, which account for nearly 80% of the world's supply, Australia contributes about 10% and seeks to position itself as a premium alternative. The industry aims to build on the positive outcomes of the 2024-25 season, marked by record exports and substantial sales growth. Key markets include China, India, Europe, and the Middle East, with Indonesia identified as a potential growth area.
Source: Australian Almonds