Consumption grew 32.6 per cent in 2023 as Spain consolidates position as second biggest global exporter
The growing popularity of almonds is driving a production and consumption boom in Spain. Figures from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food show that consumption grew 32.6 per cent last to 14.7mn kg, thanks to its reputation as being a healthy and sustainable snack choice.
The market value of almonds in Spain increased by 26.6 per cent in 2023 to €178.2mn, while per capita spending increased by 25.2 pe cent to €3.81. Almonds represent 9.2 per cent of the total volume of nuts consumed in Spain and 13.5 per cent of the category’s market value. Research shows that couples with middle-aged or older children, adult couples without children and retired people are the biggest consumers.
Spanish Almond Board-Almendrave (the association of Spanish almond and hazelnut exporters) and Portuguese dried fruit association CNCFS said the boom is in large part down to the success of their joint European promotion campaign, co-financed by the European Union, which has been running since last year. Under the slogan ‘Sustainable EU Almond’, the campaign highlights the quality and sustainability of Spanish and Portuguese-grown almonds.
Most dry-farmed almond trees on the Peninsula are native varieties such as Guara, Belona and Avijor-lauranne, which are sold in the domestic and European market. The Iberian Peninsula is a major exporter of almonds, and Spain is the second biggest exporter behind the US, accounting for 90 per cent of global trade.
France and Germany are two of Spain’s most important markets and the focus of the ‘Sustainable EU Almond’ campaign. In 2023, France imported 30.9mn kg of Spanish almonds (whole, toasted and almond flour), while Germany imported 26.1mn kg.
“This places the Iberian Peninsula, and Spain in particular, at the epicentre of one of the major food trends of the moment. And it could not be otherwise, since the European almond brings together all the characteristics that today’s consumer demands,” Spanish Almond Board-Almendrave and CNCFS said.
“It is a nutritious and healthy product, rich in heart-healthy fats and vegetable proteins, among other benefits. It is also a sustainable food, with more than 80 per cent of plantings in dry land, which follows the demanding European production model and provides resources to the Empty Spain. And, above all, it is a delicious nut on its own and enormously versatile in the kitchen.”
