With trade policy and tariffs earmarked to be a key point of discussion at the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC) Congress in Spain this week, South African macadamia growers are advocating for more inclusive trade terms in markets such as China, India and the US.

As a world-leading macadamia nut exporter, South Africa plays a key role in shaping discussions on tariffs, market access and global supply.

Green Farms Nut Company executive Alex Whyte, who is attending the congress, explains that recent shifts in trade dynamics and evolving tariff measures have created new complexities for producers, particularly as the US remains a vital market for premium-quality macadamias.

South African macadamia nuts are currently subject to a 10% ad valorem duty in the US, down from an earlier 30%. Whyte says although a proposed additional hike for South African produce has been paused, exporters and processors of nuts are navigating an increasingly competitive global market.

“The discussions are not about placing blame but finding solutions that work for all stakeholders. We recognise the US has its priorities, but there is mutual benefit in making high-quality imports accessible to American consumers and manufacturers,” Whyte states.

He adds that American production is unable to meet its own growing demand for macadamias, therefore imported nuts play a critical role in supporting a wide range of US food brands.

Simultaneously, producers in exporting countries such as South Africa face rising costs and infrastructure demands tied to meeting that demand, especially in rural areas where the nut sector provides thousands of jobs and sustains communities.

Whyte says industry stakeholders are also looking to expand market access across Asia and the EU.

He highlights the 12% tariffs in China, 30% in India and 30% in South Korea as areas where dialogue could open growth opportunities.

Australia, for example, can benefit from zero-duty access to India under new agreements – which Whyte cites as an example of how trade policy can be a tool for unlocking win-win outcomes.

“Ultimately, it’s not about one market or another. It is about creating fair conditions globally so we can invest, expand and keep the industry sustainable long-term. We’re seeing increased engagement across the board, from the US to the EU to Asia, and that is encouraging.”

The INC congress comes at a time of broader international reflection on trade.

The EU recently delayed the reintroduction of tariffs on US agricultural imports, signalling a desire to keep negotiations alive.

With stakeholders from across continents in attendance, the congress offers an important platform for advancing conversations that balance domestic priorities with global collaboration.

South Africa, for its part, continues to advocate for more inclusive trade terms – not just in the US but with major partners across Asia.

The aim is to ensure the long-term viability of an industry that contributes more than R5.4-billion to South Africa’s GDP and supports an estimated 80 000 jobs.

“There’s a real opportunity here. The global appetite for quality, sustainable macadamias is strong. With practical, well-balanced trade policy, everyone stands to benefit,” Whyte says, adding that diplomacy and shared interest will guide the way forward for the global nut industry.