Almonds are among the most widely farmed nuts in the world, with the majority of global production taking place in Europe and the Middle East. It was made in Middle Eastern countries, but subsequently, once the seeds got transmitted to Africa and Europe, people in those regions also started taking benefit of this fruit. Initially, it was produced in the Middle Eastern countries.
The IAC predicts global almond production to reach 1.53 million metric tons in 2023/24, with potential for further growth in the coming years. Various market research reports indicate a projected CAGR of 4-6% for the global almond market, suggesting potential production increases.
Either these almonds are processed by having the outermost layer of its hard shell removed in order to prepare them for sale on the market, or else they are immediately marketed in accordance with the requirements of the market.
Top Almond Producing Countries In The World
List of leading almond producing countries in the world:
1. United States of America
The United States of America, which is not only the world’s most powerful nation but also the nation that produces the most almonds overall, is the world’s leader. There is an annual production of over 898167 metric tonnes of almonds, the majority of which are cultivated in the state of California. The remainder of the production is either sold unshelled or processed, while around 70 percent of the production is sent abroad in the form of hard shells.
The climatic conditions of places like California are favorable for the cultivation of almonds, and in addition to this, the United States is at the forefront of the industry in terms of both the methods and the technology that are currently available. The naturally delicious almonds grown in this region are put to use not only in the local culinary scene but also in the export market.
2. Spain
Spain holds the number two spot in the world in terms of annual almond production, with roughly 222,959 metric tonnes. This plant is cultivated in Spain by a huge number of different farmers, all of whom do it for financial gain. Almonds are grown in many regions of Spain, including Andalusia, Catalonia, Valencia, Aragon, and Murcia.
Catalonia is well recognized for its almond production. The two most common types of almonds in Spain are called Desmayo Largueta and Marcona, and they are responsible for around 40 percent of the total production. Cristomorto and Ferragnes Ferraduel are the two more types that are cultivated in this region. Raw consumption of these nuts is recommended because of their flavor-enhancing role in the stew to which they are added.
3. Italy
Italy comes in at number three on this list with an annual production of 1, 0664 metric tons of almonds. Amaretti, which is widely regarded as Italy’s most beloved sweet, is made possible thanks to the extraction of bitter almonds from apricots, which are then used in the manufacturing of a wide variety of desserts across the country.
The cookies get their signature bitter taste from the inclusion of bitter almonds in the recipe. Almonds are utilized in the preparation of Torrone & Pasta di mandorle, both of which are types of almond paste, in many homes. In general, the manufacturing of almonds takes place in the towns of the South as well as in Sicily, which is known for its verdant and steep terrain.
4. Iran
Almond production in Iran totals approximately 99,551 metric tonnes per year. The regions of Tabriz as well as the North West of Iran are responsible for the vast majority of the country’s crop production. Amygdaluscommunis is the name given to the native kind of almonds that may be found in the country. Once more, there is a choice between the sweet and the bittersweet varieties of almonds.
The vast majority of the nuts are sent to India as exports. If you get the chance, you should sample the green almonds that have been dunked in the sea salt. In Iran, they are a popular street food item that may be purchased by anyone looking for a quick bite to eat. The Sweet varieties of almonds, which are used to make Harire Badan, are considered to be nourishment for infants.
5. Syria
In Syria, there are around 18 million trees, which collectively yield and over 84485 metric tonnes of almonds year. This nation’s ranking has dropped from number three to number 5 as a direct result of the political upheaval that has been occurring there. Almonds grown in Syria are harvested, processed, and sold to customers in other countries. This product is available in two distinct varieties, including sweet almonds & bitter almonds. In different parts of the country, people may refer to these by a number of different names.
6. Morocco
Morocco comes up at number six on this list with an annual production of 72,360 metric tons of almonds. Almonds may be grown successfully in this country due to its proximity to the Mediterranean, which has a climate that is favorable for their development. Growing seedlings and grafted trees together is something that happens pretty frequently.
More than sixty-five percentage of the production is carried out on a small scale, which results in poorer yields. Almonds are most commonly used in the fillings of pastries in the form of almond paste. They are also used in a variety of desserts, such as sellou, which is a delicious snack made of almonds and can be kept for a long time.
7. Tunisia
Tunisia is ranked number seven in the world in terms of yearly almond production, with 49605 metric tonnes. In most cases, almonds and olives are grown in the same field at the same time. In addition to almonds, Tunisia is also known for its production of pistachios. The importance of nuts to Tunisia’s agricultural industry cannot be overstated.
It is interesting to note that the vast bulk of the almond output is consumed within the nation itself, while only a very small proportion is shipped to other nations. The Sfax region of Tunisia is home to more than half of the country’s plantations, while the remaining areas are dispersed throughout the remainder of the country.
8. Turkey
Turkey is the eighth largest producer in the world, with an annual output of 49048 metric tonnes. Typically, the areas of Mersin, the Aegean, Marmara, and the Mediterranean are the ones that are responsible for its cultivation. The Ferragnes, Ferrastar, Nonpareil, and Teksas kinds are the ones that are grown here in this region.
The climate is just right for the cultivation of almonds that are of the highest possible quality. Additionally, confectionery items, chocolates, and cakes are the most common applications for it.
9. Australia
Australia, located in southern hemisphere, is responsible for the annual production of around 46381 metric tonnes of almonds. Almond production is robust in the regions surrounding the Murray River, particularly in states like New South Wales, South Australia, and Victoria in Australia.
Here in this region, we cultivate a number of different types, including Mission, , Nonpareil, Firtz ,and Chellaston. Raw almonds are used both to increase the flavor of the cuisine and to enhance the appearance of the dish.
10. Greece
Greece comes in at number ten on the list with an annual production of 45,150 metric tonnes of almonds. Magnesia, also known as Almyros, is often where almonds are sourced from. There are two types of almonds that are produced there: Teksas almonds & Ferragnes almonds. Both of these types of almonds are very well known for their exceptional flavor and quality. In Greece, almonds are commonly used in the preparation of sweets and desserts for weddings. Some of them are used in the production of carbonated beverages such as Soumanda.
Final thoughts
The world over, almonds are revered for their delicious flavor. The United States is responsible for the greatest amount of output, and it will remain able to keep its lead over other nations in this race thanks to the favorable climatic circumstances and cutting-edge technology that it possesses. This fruit is extremely beneficial to people’s health and offers a wide range of advantages to their lives.
Almond Production FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about almond production:
Q1. What is the almond production process?
Ans: The almond production process involves planting almond trees, which grow for about three to five years before producing almonds. Once the almonds are ripe, they are harvested and hulled to remove the outer shell. The almonds are then dried and processed for consumption.
Q2. What are some common almond varieties?
Ans: Some common almond varieties include Nonpareil, California, Mission, and Carmel.
Q3. Where are most almonds produced?
Ans: The majority of almonds are produced in California, with about 80% of the world’s almonds coming from the state.
Q4. What are some environmental concerns with almond production?
Ans: One environmental concern with almond production is the amount of water required to grow the trees. Almond trees require a lot of water, and in drought-prone areas, this can put a strain on water resources. Another concern is the use of pesticides and herbicides, which can impact the surrounding ecosystem if not used responsibly.
