SA takes the global lead in macadamia nut production

South Africa has surpassed Australia as the world’s largest macadamia producer and is set to produce a record-breaking 48 000 tonnes of nut-in-shell (NIS) product this year, according to a report by the agriculture publication, Farmers’ Weekly.

The South African industry is enjoying an exceptionally profitable phase, with global prices riding the crest of Chinese demand, reported the publication, citing KwaZulu-Natal North Coast macadamia farmer, Myles Osborn,  who spoke at a recent Standard Bank agribusiness event in Durban.

“Macadamias have become the most expensive nuts in China. They carry social status. Chinese demand has pushed up the farm-gate price 400% in the last six years, with no price dip,” Osborn reportedly said.


Being a low-cost operation, macadamia production is an attractive industry locally, especially for farmers in KZN, which is deemed to be amongst the best areas in the world for the crop.

“Over the past 10 years, large plantings have been undertaken in KZN, especially in Paddock and Port Edward on the South Coast, as well as pockets in Empangeni and Umhlali on the North Coast. The industry is really starting to develop,” commented Osborn, who farms 60ha macadamias and 340ha sugarcane in Doringkop near Stanger.