Arabfields, Sophia Daly, Financial Analyst specialized in Agriculture and Futures Markets — In an era where health-conscious consumers are increasingly turning to natural, nutrient-dense snacks, the global market for nuts and dried fruits has emerged as one of the most dynamic sectors in the food industry. From almond orchards in California to apricot fields in Turkey, these products are not just pantry staples, they are superfoods driving billions in revenue, fueled by rising demand for plant-based diets, convenient snacking, and wellness trends. As we stand in early 2026, the industry has largely met its projected growth targets while continuing to face challenges from climate variability and supply chain pressures.

The global nuts market has reached approximately $65 billion in 2026, reflecting steady growth from $61.5 billion in 2025 with a compound annual growth rate of around 6%. The dried fruits segment has climbed to $13.16 billion, up from $12.38 billion in 2025. Combined, the broader nuts and dried fruits market continues on a trajectory toward values exceeding $77 billion by the early 2030s.

This expansion is driven by the inherent nutritional profile of these foods: healthy fats, fiber, protein, vitamins, and antioxidants that position them as ideal choices for trail mixes, baking ingredients, and standalone snacks.

Global tree nut production in the 2024/25 season reached nearly 6 million metric tons (kernel basis, except pistachios in-shell). Almonds led with 1.65 million tons, representing 27% of total production, followed by cashews and pistachios at around 1.2 million tons each, and walnuts at 1.12 million tons. The dominant producers remain the United States for almonds, with significant contributions from Australia and Spain; the United States, Iran, and Türkiye for pistachios; Côte d’Ivoire, Vietnam, and India for cashews; China, the United States, and Chile for walnuts; and Türkiye for hazelnuts.

Dried fruit production exceeded 3.1 million metric tons in the same period, with dried grapes (raisins, sultanas, currants) accounting for 1.29 million tons, or 41% of the total, and dates contributing significant volumes. The leading producers continue to be Türkiye, Iran, and India for dried grapes; Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE for dates; Chile and the United States for prunes; Türkiye for dried apricots; and Türkiye and Iran for dried figs.

For the current 2025/26 season, global almond production has risen nearly 10% to 1.8 million metric tons (shelled basis), primarily due to improved yields in the United States. Walnut production (in-shell basis) has increased 3% to 2.7 million tons, while pistachio output remains strong following the previous record season.

California remains the backbone of global almond supply, with the United States accounting for 34% of world tree nut production in 2024/25. Turkey continues to dominate figs, apricots, and raisins.

The United States holds the lead in tree nut production with 34% of global output, followed by Türkiye at 14% and China at 13%. In dried fruits, Türkiye, Iran, and Middle Eastern countries excel in dates and grapes.

International trade remains robust. In-shell tree nut trade in 2024 exceeded 4.76 million metric tons, led by cashews. The United States commands 74% of global almond exports, while Türkiye controls 69% of hazelnuts. Pistachio exports have sustained high levels from both the United States and Iran.

In the current 2025/26 season, almond exports have reached approximately 1.1 million tons and walnut exports a record 1.2 million tons (in-shell). Major importing regions include India for almonds, China for pistachios, and the European Union across multiple categories.

Consumption continues to surge, with Asia representing 47% of tree nut demand and Europe 30%. Documented health benefits, such as cardiovascular support from walnuts, sustained energy from almonds, and natural sweetness from dates, remain primary motivators. The ongoing shift toward plant-based and vegan lifestyles has further elevated dried fruits as clean-label alternatives to processed sweets.

Demand for organic, sustainably sourced, and innovative products is strong. Freeze-dried formats, flavored mixes, nut butters, and single-serve snack packs have gained significant shelf space in both traditional retail and e-commerce channels.

The industry is not without risks. Climate change continues to impact yields: persistent water constraints in California affect almonds, while unpredictable weather patterns disrupt apricot and other fruit harvests in Türkiye. Supply chain volatility, fluctuating input costs, and occasional trade tensions contribute to price instability.

Sustainability initiatives have become central to operations. Major producers and processors are investing in water-efficient irrigation, regenerative farming practices, and third-party certifications to meet consumer and regulatory expectations.

In 2026, the nuts market has achieved its forecasted range of $65 billion, with some segments showing slightly higher growth due to strong Asian demand. Dried fruits have hit $13.16 billion, supported by innovation in snack formats and export growth from traditional producing countries.

Production increases in almonds at 1.8 million tons and walnuts have helped stabilize supply, though natural alternate-bearing cycles in pistachios and potential weather disruptions introduce variability. Emerging markets in Asia, continued plant-based trends, and premium product differentiation are expected to sustain momentum through the remainder of the decade, with compound annual growth rates projected at 4–6% for nuts and 5–6% for dried fruits.

The nuts and dried fruits market demonstrates remarkable resilience within the global food system. These ancient foods, now positioned as modern superfoods, support both consumer health and rural economies in key producing regions. In 2026, the sector has delivered on growth expectations while adapting to environmental and economic pressures. Continued investment in sustainable practices and innovation will be essential to maintain this trajectory. For millions of consumers worldwide, a simple handful of nuts or dried fruits remains a convenient, delicious way to prioritize wellness. The outlook is positive, and full of promise.