EU Pistachio Imports Hit Historic High, Marketing Plays Vital Role for US Suppliers

Freshly harvested pistachios overflowing in a wooden crate on a sunny day, with rows of pistachio trees in the background and a tractor partially visible on the left.

EU Pistachio Imports Hit Historic High, Marketing Plays Vital Role for US Suppliers

The European Union’s appetite for pistachios is at an all-time high. In 2024, EU imports surpassed EUR 1 billion, driven by record-breaking volumes and increased demand. This marks a 32% jump in import volume compared to the previous high in 2022, solidifying pistachios as a booming segment in the nut industry.

Imports Surge Past EUR 1 Billion

According to official statistics, EU pistachio imports in 2024 reached 151,821 metric tons (mt), a sharp increase from 114,652 mt in 2022. This surge translates to a record-breaking EUR 1.119 billion, a 36% increase from EUR 823 million in 2023.

The United States remains the EU’s largest supplier, with shipments growing by an impressive 56%, accounting for the lion’s share of the EU market. Other notable contributors include Iran, which saw a 21% growth in exports to the EU, and Turkey, whose shipments more than doubled.

Germany led EU pistachio imports, making up 37% of total imports, followed by Italy (20%) and Spain (12%).

Country 2023 (mt) 2024 (mt) Growth (%)
USA 87,489 136,838 56.4%
Iran 6,375 7,692 20.7%
Turkey 2,127 4,469 110.1%
UAE 102 654 541.2%
Jordan 13 641 4,830.8%
Afghanistan 46 490 1,065.2%
Syria 236 475 101.3%
Other 555 562 1.3%
Total 96,943 151,821 56.7%

Marketing Fuels US Pistachio Success

US suppliers have strategically leveraged marketing to dominate the EU market, but 2024 was a challenging year. With low starting stocks and weaker production, pistachio prices rose, spurred by high costs of other nuts like walnuts and almonds.

Looking ahead to 2025/2026, forecasts from Rabobank and the USDA predict production could exceed 680,389 mt, highlighting the importance of sustained marketing efforts. The US pistachio industry is ramping up campaigns to encourage consumption in key global markets to keep pace with production growth.

Iran: A Reliable Alternative

While the US holds the top spot, Iranian pistachios continue to play a significant role in the EU market. Iran’s production rebounded to approximately 190,000 mt in 2024, enabling competitive pricing that has bolstered its appeal. EU traders noted that Iranian pistachios have served as a dependable alternative, especially during periods of tight supply.

Turkey’s Resilience Amid Rising Costs

Turkey achieved record pistachio production of 385,000 mt in 2024, driven by robust domestic and international demand. However, high production costs, including a 30% rise in the minimum wage and soaring energy prices, have kept Turkish pistachio prices elevated.

The outlook for Turkey’s pistachio industry in 2025/2026 is less optimistic, with production expected to decline. Nevertheless, Turkish suppliers remain determined to capitalize on niche markets like premium confections, including Dubai-inspired chocolates, to sustain export momentum.

Looking Ahead

As the EU continues to drive demand for pistachios, competition among suppliers is intensifying. While the US leads the market, Iran and Turkey remain significant players, each offering unique advantages. With forecasts pointing to increased production in the coming years, marketing efforts and pricing strategies will be pivotal in shaping the future of the global pistachio trade.

 

DG AGRI TAXUD Customs Surveillance System. (2024). EU pistachio imports, 2023-2024. Retrieved from official trade statistics.

Rabobank. (2024). Pistachio production forecast for 2025/2026. Industry report.

USDA. (2024). Pistachio market trends and production outlook. Agricultural data report.

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