China Almond Market Analysis
The China Almond Market size is estimated at USD 1.12 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 1.45 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 5.30% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The China almond market continues to expand, driven by rising demand for healthy snacks and increased use of almonds in food and beverage products. The versatility of almonds extends across multiple applications, including traditional snacking, confectionery, bakery products, plant-based milk alternatives, and nutritional supplements. This widespread adoption has significantly strengthened their position in the Chinese market.
A June 2024 ProVeg International survey revealed that 46% of Chinese consumers choose plant-based foods for health reasons, while 39% select them for nutritional benefits. This shift toward plant-based products contributes to the growth of China's almond market, particularly as consumers become more aware of the heart-healthy properties, protein content, and essential nutrients found in almonds. The growing middle-class population and increasing health consciousness have further accelerated this trend.
China's domestic almond production remains insufficient to meet local demand. The China Agricultural Products Yearbook reported domestic production of 124,000 metric tons in 2023, while consumption reached 235,000 metric tons of almond kernels, necessitating imports to fulfill approximately half of the demand. This production gap highlights China's significant dependence on international almond suppliers. The limited domestic production is primarily due to geographical constraints and climate conditions that affect optimal almond cultivation.
ITC TradeMap data shows China imported 111,380 metric tons of almonds in 2023. In-shell almonds constituted 66,665 metric tons of total imports, while shelled almonds accounted for 44,715 metric tons. The preference for in-shell almonds reflects both traditional consumption patterns and local processing capabilities. This import pattern also indicates the presence of a robust domestic processing industry that adds value to imported in-shell almonds.
The United States and Australia dominate almond exports to China, benefiting from their established agricultural practices, advanced farming technologies, and favorable growing conditions. In 2023, the United States exported 69,718 metric tons of almonds to China, while Australia supplied 41,639 metric tons, collectively meeting the majority of China's import requirements. These countries have developed efficient supply chains and quality control measures to ensure consistent delivery of high-quality almonds to the Chinese market.
China Almond Market Trends
Increasing Health Consciousness
Post-pandemic, Chinese consumers are gravitating more towards nutritious and functional foods. Urban middle-class consumers are increasingly favoring tree nuts, particularly almonds, for their health benefits as a go-to snack. This shift is driven by growing health awareness, the rising prevalence of lifestyle-related health issues, and the desire for convenient, nutrient-dense food options that align with their busy lifestyles. Additionally, the perception of almonds as a premium and versatile ingredient has further contributed to their growing popularity in this demographic.
The International Nut and Dried Fruit Council reports that Chinese consumers are steadily increasing their tree nut consumption year after year. The consumption patterns show significant growth, with a consistent 5% annual increase over the past five years. This substantial growth has resulted in a total consumption volume of 8 million metric tons (kernel equivalent), which represents a significant portion - 15% of global tree nut consumption. This trend highlights China's important role in the global almond market and demonstrates the growing appetite for tree nuts among Chinese consumers.
According to the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council, China's per-capita tree nut consumption, including almonds, was 0.56 kilograms in 2023. The Council estimates that per-capita tree nut consumption may reach 1 kilogram by 2030, nearly double the 2023 level. This increasing consumption trend drives market growth in the country.
Almond kernels and mixed nut snacks are the top choices for consumers, overshadowing in-shell almonds due to their convenience and versatility in consumption. Additionally, almond nut gift boxes are becoming a favored present for family, friends, and business associates, especially during festive seasons and special occasions, as they are perceived as premium and thoughtful gifts.
Growing Demand for Plant-Based and Diary Alternatives
In China, the rising consumer acceptance of plant-based foods is opening up lucrative opportunities for almonds in the nation's food sector. The United States Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Services reports that China's market for plant-based foods expanded at a 14% annual rate over the last five years, hitting a valuation of USD 13 billion in 2023. This growth is driven by increasing health awareness, environmental concerns, and a shift toward sustainable diets among Chinese consumers. Over 8,000 companies across China are now crafting plant-based foods and beverages, incorporating tree nuts such as almonds to cater to the evolving preferences and growing demand of Chinese consumers.
As per T-mall's almond innovation report, there's a rising consumer appetite for a variety of almond-based offerings. These range from almond butter, paste, and powder to oatmeal, beverages, ice cream, and even skincare products. This heightened demand for innovative almond products is fueling significant market expansion in the country. The increasing preference for plant-based and health-focused products among consumers is a key driver of this trend. Additionally, the versatility of almonds as an ingredient allows manufacturers to cater to diverse consumer needs, creating numerous opportunities for both manufacturers and retailers in the almond segment.
In 2023, Hebei Chengde Lolo Co., Ltd. launched two almond-based products in response to growing demand for plant-based products. The company focuses on developing "almond+" products to address diverse plant-based consumer needs, which contributes to the growth of the almond market in the country.
China Almond Market News
- November 2022: Jooma, a Chinese subsidiary of Munich-based NOIX AG, introduced an almond milk concentrate named Call Me Almond Milk in China. The product represents the first almond milk concentrate in the Chinese market.
- December 2023: Hebei Chengde Lolo Co.,Ltd. Launched an almond tea flavored tea beverage, which uses wild mountain almonds as the base and matches green tea, and combines it with the style of packaging design to create a product with a gentle Chinese style.
- January 2023: Hebei Chengde Lolo Co.,Ltd. launched a new almond milk product, which uses Xinjiang almond kernels as raw materials and is paired with cocoa powder.
