Australia’s Macadamia Industry Booms as Demand Outpaces Supply
Despite a rapid expansion in production area and tree planting, strong domestic and international demand is expected to keep Australia’s macadamia prices high for the foreseeable future.
Expansion in North Queensland
Andrew Cross of MH Premium Farms in the Burdekin, Queensland, is currently harvesting his first commercial macadamia crop after transitioning the land from sugarcane five years ago. The farm has been planting over 8,000 trees per year for the last five years, marking a significant expansion into the Burdekin region.
Agronomist Courtney Richards noted the potential for further grower adoption in the area, highlighting that growing methods previously established in Bundaberg are now being successfully adapted to local conditions.
National Production and Market Reach
Australia currently produces 50,000 tonnes of macadamias annually across 48,000 hectares. According to Australian Macadamia Society industry development manager Leoni Kojetin, the total production area has more than doubled in the last decade.
- Exports: Approximately 75% of Australian macadamias are exported to 40 countries. This includes a significant recent expansion into India under a new free trade agreement.
- Global Competition: While worldwide macadamia production is expanding faster than in Australia, Kojetin emphasized that Australian quality provides a critical competitive edge in the global market.
Consumption and Demand
Australians consume more macadamias per capita than any other nationality. With domestic demand remaining robust alongside strong international appetite, prices have stayed high despite the increased supply.
"Domestic and international demand remain strong, preventing price reductions despite increased supply."