MARKET OVERVIEW
The macadamia is an extremely nutritious nut with high export potential and in high demand – macadamias only make up approximately 2% of worlds nut production.
From fairly humble beginnings in the 1960’s when macadamias were first introduced into the country, the South African macadamia industry has grown into a major world force, being the third largest producer in the world today. It is arguably the fastest growing tree crop industry in South Africa, with production increasing more than five-fold in the last few years, from 840 tons of edible kernel in 1996 to about 4,500 tons in 2006.
THE SOUTHERN AFRICAN MACADAMIA GROWERS ASSOCIATION (SAMAC)
The Southern African Macadamia Growers Association (SAMAC) was formed in the early 1970’s by a group of growers seeking to pool their resources in order to address common challenges. SAMAC is a dynamic organisation, funded by a voluntary levy and directed by macadamia industry participants who have the development of the industry at heart. SAMAC has grown to about 1,000 members.
Source: Southern African Macadamia Growers Association (SAMAC)
The industry is export-based with more than 95% of annual production shipped to international markets. Europe is presently our largest market, followed by the USA and Canada, Japan, Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
R2 BILLION SOUTH AFRICAN MACADAMIA NUT INDUSTRY
The macadamia nut industry has huge potential in South Africa – no shortage of land for macadamia crops.
Growth of the South African macadamia nut industry is expected to double in the next 7 years.
There is great opportunity for job creation in the agricultural sector and wealth development in rural areas.