Walnuts have long been prized for their rich flavor, nutritional benefits, and versatility in both culinary and medicinal applications. Whether enjoyed as a snack, a baking ingredient, or an addition to salads and desserts, walnuts continue to grow in popularity across the globe. With rising awareness about healthy eating habits and plant-based diets, demand for this superfood has soared internationally — especially in countries that don’t produce them in large quantities.
So, which nation imports more walnuts than any other? Let’s dive into the numbers, global market dynamics, and trade trends to find out.
Global Walnut Production & Trade Overview
Before identifying the top walnut importer, it’s important to understand the larger trade context. Walnuts are mainly traded in two forms:
- In-shell walnuts — walnuts sold with their shells intact.
- Shelled walnuts — walnuts with the shell removed, ready for consumption or use in food products.
Key global walnut producers:
- China (the largest producer, around 35–40% of world output)
- United States (primarily California, contributing over 30%)
- Iran
- Turkey
- Chile
- Ukraine
These countries not only meet domestic demand but also supply the majority of the world’s walnut trade.
Which Country Is the Largest Walnut Importer?
The answer depends on whether we’re looking at in-shell walnuts or shelled walnuts. Based on recent trade data from 2023 and early 2024:
Largest In-shell Walnut Importer: United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The United Arab Emirates has consistently ranked as the world’s leading importer of in-shell walnuts. In 2023:
- UAE imported over 64,000 metric tonnes of in-shell walnuts.
- The total value of these imports surpassed USD 141 million.
- The primary suppliers were the United States, Chile, and Ukraine.
Why UAE?
The UAE serves as a central trade hub for the Middle East and parts of Asia. Many of the walnuts imported into the UAE are re-exported to neighboring countries like India, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Iran. Additionally, the domestic market for nuts is substantial, driven by high per capita income and a strong cultural preference for dried fruits and nuts.
Other Major In-shell Walnut Importers:
- Turkey (USD 132 million)
- European Union as a bloc (USD 86 million)
- India (USD 79 million)
Turkey’s demand for in-shell walnuts is fueled by traditional culinary uses and local preferences, especially for cracking nuts fresh at home.
Largest Shelled Walnut Importer: Germany
When it comes to shelled (kernel) walnuts, Germany leads the global market:
- In 2023, Germany imported more than 27,000 metric tonnes of shelled walnuts.
- These imports were valued at around USD 102 million.
- Major suppliers included the United States, Chile, and France.
Why Germany?
Germany’s food processing industry is among Europe’s largest, with walnuts widely used in:
- Baking (cakes, pastries, breads)
- Snack mixes
- Breakfast cereals
- Plant-based products (walnut milk, vegan desserts)
Additionally, Germany acts as a distribution hub for other European Union markets, re-exporting a portion of imported walnuts to neighboring countries.
Trends Driving Walnut Imports Globally
Several factors have contributed to the rising demand for walnut imports worldwide:
1. Health & Wellness Trends
Walnuts are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and protein, making them a favored choice among health-conscious consumers. Their benefits for heart health, brain function, and weight management have driven global demand.
2. Growth in Plant-Based Food Markets
With plant-based diets gaining popularity, walnuts are increasingly used in dairy alternatives, vegan desserts, plant-based snacks, and meat substitutes.
3. Expanding Food Processing Industries
Countries with advanced food processing sectors (like Germany, France, Japan, and South Korea) have steadily increased walnut imports to cater to growing consumer demand for packaged snacks and health foods.
4. Cultural & Traditional Preferences
In Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and South Asian countries, walnuts hold significant cultural value and are consumed regularly in traditional recipes, especially during religious festivals and celebrations.
Key Walnut Import Markets (2023 Data)
| Country/Region | Import Type | Import Value (USD) | Import Volume (Metric Tonnes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UAE | In-shell | 141 million | 64,000 |
| Turkey | In-shell | 132 million | 82,000 |
| Germany | Shelled | 102 million | 27,000 |
| India | In-shell | 79 million | 57,000 |
| European Union | Shelled | 283 million (combined) | 45,500 |
Challenges Impacting the Walnut Trade
Despite rising demand, the global walnut trade faces certain hurdles:
- Price Volatility: Droughts, frost, and other climate factors in key producing regions like California and Chile can cause supply shortages and price fluctuations.
- Trade Tariffs: Import duties and trade disputes (like U.S.–China tensions) can affect pricing and availability in specific markets.
- Quality Standards: Countries like those in the European Union have strict regulations on aflatoxin and pesticide residues, which sometimes limit walnut shipments from certain regions.
- Supply Chain Issues: Global shipping delays, rising freight costs, and geopolitical instability in certain producing countries can disrupt the walnut trade.
Future Outlook for Walnut Imports
Looking ahead:
- India is expected to increase its in-shell walnut imports, fueled by rising disposable incomes and health awareness.
- European markets, especially Germany, Spain, and France, will continue to lead in shelled walnut imports.
- Emerging markets such as South Korea, Japan, and the UAE are likely to expand their walnut imports, both for domestic consumption and re-export.
- New suppliers like Chile, Ukraine, and Australia are increasing their market share, offering buyers alternatives to U.S.-grown walnuts.
Final Summary
So, which country is the largest walnut importer in the world?
- For in-shell walnuts:
United Arab Emirates (UAE) — USD 141 million in 2023
Turkey — USD 132 million
India — USD 79 million - For shelled walnuts:
Germany — USD 102 million in 2023
France, Spain, and the UK follow within the European Union.
The distinction between in-shell and shelled walnut markets highlights differing regional preferences, trade infrastructure, and consumption patterns globally.
Conclusion
Walnuts have firmly established themselves as a staple in global food culture. From snack aisles in Germany to traditional desserts in Turkey and India, these nutrient-dense nuts remain in high demand. While the United Arab Emirates leads for in-shell imports and Germany dominates the shelled walnut trade, the dynamic nature of global markets ensures that trade patterns will continue to evolve — driven by health trends, culinary innovation, and shifting consumer habits.
Would you like a similar article on which country is the largest walnut exporter or insights on top almond importers next? I’d be happy to prepare that for you!