HS Code:
The 'Shelled' category, typically encompassing shelled nuts and seeds under various HS Codes such as 0802 (other nuts, fresh or dried, whether or not shelled or peeled), refers to products like almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and other nuts that have had their outer shells removed. This category is a significant segment of the global agricultural trade, driven by high demand in food industries, health-conscious consumer trends, and snack markets. Shelled nuts are traded both as raw commodities and as processed goods for direct consumption or as ingredients in other food products. The trade is influenced by seasonal production, regional climates, and international demand for premium quality nuts.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $15 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map and UN Comtrade Database
$5.2 billion USD
34.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$1.8 billion USD
12.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$1.5 billion USD
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$1.2 billion USD
8.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$0.9 billion USD
6.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
30% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA or within WTO member states with preferential access)
Rising demand for plant-based diets
Increased consumption of shelled nuts as protein alternatives, boosting trade volumes particularly in North America and Europe
2021-2023
Growth in organic nut markets
Higher prices and trade value for certified organic shelled nuts, with significant growth in exports from countries like Turkey and India
2020-2022
Supply chain disruptions due to climate change
Erratic weather patterns affecting nut production in key regions like California (USA), leading to price volatility and trade shifts
2019-2023
A reduction in retaliatory tariffs on US shelled almonds and walnuts exported to China as part of Phase One trade deal commitments.
January 2023
Expected to increase US exports to China by 15-20% in the short term, benefiting American producers.
The European Union introduced stricter aflatoxin limits for imported shelled nuts to ensure consumer safety.
March 2023
Exporters from regions with less stringent testing (e.g., parts of Africa and Asia) face higher compliance costs or market access barriers.
Severe drought conditions in California, a major hub for almond production, have reduced output for shelled almonds in the 2022-2023 season.
July 2023
Global prices for shelled almonds have risen by approximately 10%, with buyers shifting to alternative suppliers like Australia.