Top California Almond Exporters in USA: Almonds Export Data of USA

Find the top California almond exporters in the USA with detailed almonds export data and insights. Explore market trends, leading companies, and U.S. almond export statistics.

Top California Almond Exporters in USA: Almonds Export Data of USA

Almonds are not just another agricultural product for the United States; they’re an export powerhouse. California alone produces nearly 100% of U.S. almonds and about 80% of the global supply. That means four out of every five almonds eaten in the world can trace their roots back to California’s Central Valley. The industry’s export-driven nature makes it a critical component of U.S. agricultural trade, rural employment, and global food supply chains. According to the US export data and Almond export data of the USA, the total value of US almond exports reached $1.29 billion in 2024, a 1% decline from the previous year.

Many California almonds suppliers in usa play a major role in meeting global demand, especially as almond export from usa to India continues to rise each year.

The United States is widely recognized as the biggest exporter of almonds, consistently maintaining its position as the largest exporter of almonds due to its high-quality production and extensive distribution networks. The US is the biggest almond & California almond exporter in the world, as per the global trade data. As per the USA almonds export statistics, the total value of US California almonds reached $824.88 million in the first six months of 2025. This article provides a data-driven look at:

  • U.S. almond export volumes and trends

  • The top markets worldwide and how they are shifting

  • Profiles of California’s leading almond exporters

  • Challenges facing the industry, from tariffs to sustainability

  • And the outlook for the next decade.

US Almond Exports by Country: Where Does the US Export California Almonds?

US almond exports by country reveal that the United States exports the majority of its California almonds to a diverse range of countries worldwide. Some of the top export destinations for US-grown California almonds include countries in Europe, such as Spain and Germany, as well as Asian markets like India and China. The top 10 export destinations for US almond exports, as per USA almond export data and US shipment data for 2024-25, include: 

1. India: $915.13 million (70.5%)

India emerged as the top importer of California almonds from the US during the 2024-25 period, accounting for a whopping 70.5% of the total export value for almond export from usa to India. The demand for almonds in India has been steadily increasing due to the growing awareness of their health benefits and their extensive use in traditional Indian recipes.

2. China: $75.95 million (5.9%)

China secured the second spot in terms of California almond imports from the US, with a total value of $75.95 million, representing 5.9% of the total export value, as per the data on US almond exports to China by HS code. Almonds are gaining popularity in China as a healthy snack option, driving the demand for imports from the United States.

3. United Arab Emirates: $57.42 million (4.4%)

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) also proved to be a significant market for California almonds, with imports valued at $57.42 million, contributing to 4.4% of the total export value. The affluent population in the UAE values high-quality food products, including almonds, leading to a steady flow of imports from the US.

4. Germany: $29.65 million (2.3%)

Germany, known for its strong economy and food industry, imported California almonds worth $29.65 million, making up 2.3% of the total export value. The health-conscious German consumers have embraced almonds as a nutritious snack and ingredient, driving the demand for imports from the US.

5. Vietnam: $21.55 million (1.7%)

Vietnam emerged as a growing market for California almonds, with imports amounting to $21.55 million, accounting for 1.7% of the total export value. The demand for almonds in Vietnam is on the rise due to the increasing focus on health and wellness among the population.

6. Türkiye: $21.15 million (1.6%)

Turkey, known for its rich culinary traditions, imported $21.15 million worth of California almonds, contributing to 1.6% of the total export value, as per the data on US almond exports to Turkey. Almonds are a staple in Turkish cuisine, driving the demand for imports from the US to meet the market needs.

7. Belgium: $20.03 million (1.5%)

Belgium also featured among the top importers of California almonds from the US, with imports valued at $20.03 million, representing 1.5% of the total export value. The Belgian consumers appreciate almonds for their taste and nutritional benefits, fueling the import demand.

8. Netherlands: $18.32 million (1.4%)

The Netherlands, known for its strategic location and efficient logistics, imported California almonds worth $18.32 million, making up 1.4% of the total export value. The country serves as a distribution hub for almonds within Europe, contributing to the import volume from the US.

9. Spain: $16.62 million (1.3%)

Spain, famous for its Mediterranean diet, imported $16.62 million worth of California almonds, accounting for 1.3% of the total export value. Almonds are a key ingredient in Spanish cuisine, driving the demand for imports from the US.

10. Thailand: $15.47 million (1.2%)

Thailand rounded up the top ten countries importing California almonds from the US, with imports totaling $15.47 million, contributing to 1.2% of the total export value. The Thai consumers value almonds for their taste and nutritional value, leading to a steady flow of imports.

Top California Almond Exporters in the USA: US Almond Exporters Database

The USA’s almond industry is dominated by a mix of cooperatives, multinational corporations, and family-run businesses. Together, these exporters ship billions of pounds of almonds annually to markets around the globe. While India, the Middle East, and Europe remain the largest destinations, Southeast Asia and emerging economies are becoming increasingly important. Below is a snapshot of the top 10 California almond exporters in USA in the 2024–25 season, including their estimated export values and primary markets.

Rank

Company

Approx. Export Value (2024)

Top Export Markets (2024–25)

1

Blue Diamond Growers

$1.6 billion

India, UAE, Europe

2

Wonderful Pistachios & Almonds

$4 billion 

Middle East, India, Asia-Pacific

3

Mariani Nut Company

$500 million

India, Europe, Middle East

4

Harris Woolf Almonds

$300 million

Europe, India, Southeast Asia

5

Caro Nut Company

$200 million

Europe, MENA region

6

Borges USA – Almonds

$150 million

Europe, Asia

7

Olam Food Ingredients USA

$100 million

Emerging Asian markets, Middle East

8

Nut Up Industries

$50 million

North America, niche flavor markets

9

Hilltop Ranch

$30 million

Europe, Middle East

10

Nut Company of America

$20 million

Domestic plus select international markets

 

US California Almond Exports in the Last 10 Years: Yearly US Almond Export Data

Year of Exports

US Almond Export Value ($)

2014

$883.49 million

2015

$969.98 million

2016

$1.04 billion

2017

$1.07 billion

2018

$993.21 million

2019

$1.04 billion

2020

$1.08 billion

2021

$1.13 billion

2022

$1.20 billion

2023

$1.31 billion

2024

$1.29 billion

2025 (till 2 quarters)

$824.88 million

 

U.S. Almond Export Data — The Scale of the Industry

Almonds as a Leading U.S. Agricultural Export

In terms of value, almonds are the number-one specialty crop export of the United States. The tree nut category (which includes almonds, pistachios, and walnuts) generates over $8 billion annually in export revenue, with almonds alone accounting for the majority share. In 2024, almond exports were valued at nearly $5.8 billion, making them one of the most profitable and significant agricultural commodities in the country.

For California, almonds are the crown jewel. In 2022, almond cash receipts in California reached $5.9 billion, surpassing crops like grapes, dairy, and strawberries. Because nearly three-quarters of California’s almond crop is exported, the industry is tightly bound to international market trends.

Production and Shipment Volumes

  • Harvest Size: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) projected the 2025 California almond crop at 2.8 billion pounds, slightly above the 2.73 billion pounds harvested in 2024.

  • Historical Production: In 2020, the state produced 2.8 billion pounds across 1.25 million acres of almond orchards.

  • Shipments: In the 2024 season, global shipments topped 2.7 billion pounds, a 5% increase year over year. Exports alone rose by over 6%.

This steady growth highlights almonds’ resilience as a commodity, despite challenges like drought, water regulations, and trade disputes.

Top Global Export Markets for U.S. Almonds

The United States exports almonds to more than 100 countries, but a handful of regions dominate demand.

  • India: India has consistently been the largest buyer of California almonds, importing nearly 400 million pounds in 2024, up from 73 million pounds a decade earlier. Rising middle-class income and the use of almonds in festivals and daily diets fuel this demand.

  • Middle East and North Africa (MENA): Countries like the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Morocco have emerged as fast-growing buyers. The UAE imported 158 million pounds in 2024, while Turkey purchased more than 100 million pounds, both reflecting strong year-on-year increases.

  • China and East Asia: China’s imports have fluctuated heavily due to tariffs, economic cycles, and supply chain disruptions. Direct exports fell in recent years, but rerouting through hubs like Vietnam and Malaysia allowed California almonds to maintain a presence in the broader Asia-Pacific market.

  • Europe: Traditionally a stronghold, Europe’s imports have weakened in recent years due to competition, inflation, and shifting consumer preferences. Germany, Spain, and Italy all recorded significant drops in almond imports from the U.S. in 2024.

Regional Summary of Performance

  • India: Surging growth; now the largest global market.

  • Middle East: Robust expansion, especially in UAE, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia.

  • China: Weakened by tariffs but partly offset through indirect trade routes.

  • Europe: Experiencing declines, though still a major market.

  • Southeast Asia: Emerging as a growth engine with rising consumption in Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

Top California Almond Exporters in USA

California’s almond industry is dominated by a mix of large cooperatives, family-owned businesses, and multinational companies. The largest exporters are responsible for moving billions of pounds of almonds each year, while smaller players contribute to innovation and niche market development.

1. Blue Diamond Growers

  • Overview: Established in 1910, Blue Diamond is the world’s largest tree nut processing and marketing cooperative, representing over 3,500 growers.

  • Scale: Annual revenues exceed $1.5 billion, with exports reaching over 90 countries.

  • Specialty: In addition to raw and processed almonds, Blue Diamond markets consumer-facing products like Almond Breeze almond milk and Nut-Thins crackers.

  • Strength: Its global distribution networks and cooperative model make it a stabilizing force in the industry.

2. Wonderful Pistachios & Almonds (The Wonderful Company)

  • Parent Company: The Wonderful Company, based in Los Angeles, operates across multiple crops, but almonds and pistachios form a key division.

  • Scale: Generates billions in annual sales, with a significant portion coming from almonds.

  • Strength: The company’s aggressive marketing campaigns, global logistics capacity, and brand presence make it one of the most influential exporters.

3. Mariani Nut Company

  • Family-Owned: Founded in 1972 in Winters, California, Mariani is one of the leading family-run nut processors and exporters.

  • Revenue: Estimated around $500 million annually.

  • Focus: Known for premium quality and long-term relationships with overseas buyers.

4. Harris Woolf Almonds

  • Heritage: Established in 1970 in Coalinga, California.

  • Revenue: Roughly $300 million annually.

  • Strength: Mid-sized exporter known for consistent quality and sustainable operations.

5. Caro Nut Company

  • Legacy: Operating since 1929 in Modesto, California.

  • Revenue: Around $200 million annually.

  • Focus: Exports raw and processed almonds to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Other Notable Exporters

  • Borges USA – Almonds: Fresno-based, part of Borges International, with revenues near $150 million.

  • Olam Food Ingredients USA: Fresno-based arm of the global Olam Group, strong in sustainability and supply chain reach.

  • Nut Up Industries: Focused on flavored almonds and value-added products.

  • Hilltop Ranch: Family-owned company in Ballico, specializing in quality almond exports.

  • Nut Company of America: Smaller but active in both domestic and international almond markets.

Challenges Facing US Almond Exports

Trade and Tariff Risks

Because 75–80% of California almonds are exported, global trade policies directly impact the industry’s health. During the U.S.–China trade war, Chinese tariffs on almonds reached 55%, crippling exports to that market. More recently, new U.S. tariffs on imports from Europe and Asia have triggered fears of retaliation, which could again affect almond exports. Losses in the past have exceeded $800 million annually due to trade disputes.

Water and Environmental Pressures

Almond orchards are water-intensive, requiring nearly one gallon of water per almond. In drought-prone California, this has sparked debates about sustainability. Additionally, almond pollination depends on honeybees, which face stress from pesticide use and climate change. The almond industry contracts with about 70% of U.S. commercial bee colonies during bloom season, illustrating its environmental footprint.

Climate and Weather Risks

The industry is highly vulnerable to climate volatility. Unseasonal heat, frost, or drought can reduce yields significantly. In 2024, early hot spells lowered crop quality in some regions of the Central Valley despite overall growth projections.

Supply Chain Disruptions

Global shipping bottlenecks, port congestion, and pandemic-era delays exposed the fragility of almond exports. Even minor logistics disruptions can have ripple effects, as almonds must move quickly to international buyers.

Outlook for California Almond Exports from the US

Market Diversification

Future growth will depend on diversifying away from saturated or unstable markets. India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia are expected to remain strong drivers of demand, while Europe and China may require strategic adaptation.

Sustainability and Innovation

Growers are increasingly adopting water-efficient irrigation systems, soil health practices, and pollinator-friendly methods to reduce environmental pressure. Exporters who can demonstrate sustainable credentials will gain an edge in premium markets.

Public and Private Initiatives

The Almond Board of California and USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service continue to invest heavily in market development. Over 60% of their global funding is directed toward creating new export opportunities, especially in Asia and Eastern Europe.

Company-Level Strategies

  • Blue Diamond and Wonderful will likely continue leveraging their scale and branding to dominate.

  • Mid-sized family firms like Mariani and Harris Woolf will thrive in premium, relationship-driven export markets.

  • Niche innovators such as Nut Up Industries will find growth in flavored and organic product segments.

Conclusion and Final Words

In conclusion, the almond industry is a vital engine of U.S. agricultural exports, contributing billions of dollars annually and supplying the majority of the world’s almonds. The state’s top exporters, ranging from cooperative giants like Blue Diamond to family businesses like Mariani, play an essential role in connecting growers with global markets.

The future of the industry lies in balancing growth with sustainability, navigating trade challenges, and cultivating emerging markets. With a projected 2.8 billion-pound crop in 2025 and robust demand from India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, California almonds are set to remain a cornerstone of U.S. agricultural exports, though resilience and adaptability will be critical to securing that future.

You can contact USImportdata at info@tradeimex.in for the latest US import-export data, customized trade reports, and get a verified list of the top California almond exporters in the USA or the top almond suppliers in the US

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