The Australian almond industry is on a remarkable growth trajectory, with an ambitious target of exporting 50,000 tonnes within three years, aiming to surpass a total export value of A$1 billion.

Delivered through Hort Innovation and led by the Almond Board of Australia, the Almond Market Access Trade and Development Program utilises data on global almond production and exports and insights into almond production in California and Australia. This data guides a global strategy that involves consumer research, customised approaches for established and emerging markets, and initiatives to boost demand.

The program is designed to support and drive this export-focused agenda, with key components including facilitating market access, participating in trade shows and missions, promoting health benefits through educational outreach, and fostering collaborative relationships with key trade stakeholders.

A crucial element of the program involves expanding into the Southeast Asia region, a currently underutilised market. This strategic move into Southeast Asia is grounded in several key data points:

1. Market opportunity: Southeast Asian markets present untapped opportunities for Australian almonds, capitalising on a gap left by Californian almonds.
   
   
2. Emerging markets with low consumption: These markets are categorised as emerging characterised by relatively low almond consumption. This allows Australian producers to introduce their products to new consumer bases.
   
   
3. Increasing disposable income: The region’s growing disposable income aligns with consumer preferences for premium and healthier food options, including almonds.
   
   
4. Rising health consciousness: The increasing health consciousness among Southeast Asian consumers generates a demand for nutritious and health-enhancing food products, positioning almonds as an attractive choice.

Expanding into Southeast Asia involves a significant initiative known as the ‘Café Almonds’ project, which capitalises on the prevalent cafe culture in the region. The aim is to promote almonds not only as a snack but also as a versatile food ingredient. The approach seeks to transition almonds from the hospitality sector to everyday home consumption, targeting hospitality, then food manufacturers, followed by retailers, and ultimately reaching households.

As part of the levy-funded Educating Food Professionals program, a series of almond-inspired recipes has been developed. The objective is to position almonds as the primary protein component in savory dishes, providing an opportunity to educate health professionals and encourage the incorporation of almonds into local cuisines.

The project employs a data-driven approach, utilising global almond production and export statistics, including data from the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC) and specific information on Californian and Australian almond production. This data serves as the foundation for a comprehensive global market development strategy, which includes consumer research and analysis for shaping the overall approach and scale of investment.

Hort Innovation’s commitment to the global development of the Australian almond industry is evident through the almond market access trade and development program. The pursuit of new opportunities in regions such as Southeast Asia stands as a testament to the dedication to advancing the Australian almond industry. This strategic approach not only emphasises the quality and versatility of the produce but also positions the industry to thrive on an international scale.