Mozambique eyes US$31M in macadamia exports amid growing Chinese market

MOZAMBIQUE – Mozambique expects to earn approximately US$31.3 million from macadamia nut exports during the 2024-2025 season.

This projection represents a 14% increase compared to the previous year’s earnings of US$27 million, according to Feliza Macome, Director of Central Services for Almond Production and Development.

Macome attributes this positive outlook to an expected rise in export volumes. “Exporters should place 6,000 tons of nuts on the international market this year, 1,000 tons more than the volume shipped the previous season,” she stated.

The country primarily sells macadamia nuts to South Africa, Vietnam, and China, with recent developments likely to expand its reach further.

Trade deal opens doors in China

Mozambique’s macadamia sector received a boost following a three-year trade agreement with China. The protocol, which allows duty-free exports of macadamia nuts, also covers pigeon peas and cashew nuts.

It builds on a broader trade relationship that has seen over 400 Mozambican products enter the Chinese market without customs fees.

“The objective is to encourage domestic production, processing, and export. We already have experience in Maputo and Niassa provinces and hope to expand further,” Macome said.

Authorities are actively promoting macadamia cultivation to bring more local farmers into the sector, which is currently dominated by foreign investors.

While Mozambique produced approximately 6,000 tons of macadamia nuts in 2023, stakeholders are optimistic that domestic participation will increase in the coming years.

Strengthening the industry for long-term growth

Mozambique’s commercial macadamia plantations are concentrated in the provinces of Manica, Niassa, and Maputo, covering over 8,000 hectares. The government is considering regulatory measures similar to those used for cashew nut sales to ensure sustainable growth and fair pricing in the industry.

Beyond China and South Africa, Mozambique also exports macadamia nuts to Vietnam. As global demand continues to rise, improved market positioning and increasing prices are helping stabilize the sector after challenges posed by the COVID-19 economic downturn.

With growing international interest, Mozambican farmers and exporters are hopeful that strengthened trade ties and increased production will drive the industry forward.

As authorities focus on boosting domestic output and ensuring fair trade policies, the country’s macadamia sector is set for steady expansion.

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