HS Code:
Chestnuts (Castanea spp.), classified under HS Code 080241 (fresh or dried, in shell) and 080242 (fresh or dried, shelled), are edible nuts primarily grown in temperate regions. They are a significant agricultural product in several countries, valued for both culinary use and nutritional benefits. Chestnuts are consumed roasted, boiled, or processed into flour and other products. The global trade of chestnuts is influenced by seasonal production, regional demand, and phytosanitary regulations.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 2.2 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) and UN Comtrade Database
1.1 million metric tons
50% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
250,000 metric tons
11.4% of global trade of total trade
Stable
200,000 metric tons
9.1% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
150,000 metric tons
6.8% of global trade of total trade
Stable
100,000 metric tons
4.5% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5-10% ad valorem
Highest Rate
30% (in certain developing markets with protective agricultural policies)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU internal trade or specific bilateral agreements)
Rising demand for organic and sustainably sourced chestnuts
Increased prices for certified organic chestnuts and growth in niche markets, especially in Europe and North America
2021-2023
Expansion of chestnut-based processed products
Higher export value due to value-added products like chestnut flour, purees, and snacks, particularly from Italy and France
2020-2022
Climate change affecting production
Erratic weather patterns causing yield fluctuations, particularly in traditional growing regions like Southern Europe
2019-2023
The European Union introduced stricter phytosanitary controls for chestnut imports to prevent the spread of pests like the chestnut gall wasp.
January 2023
Non-compliant exporters face delays or rejections, increasing costs for producers outside the EU.
China expanded its chestnut export capacity by investing in cold storage and logistics, targeting markets in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
October 2022
Strengthened China's dominance in the global chestnut market, putting pressure on smaller exporters.
Turkey launched a national program to certify organic chestnut farms, aiming to capture premium markets in Europe.
March 2023
Expected to increase Turkey's export revenue by 15-20% in the organic segment over the next five years.