World Nut and Dried Fruit Congress unveils growth forecasts and launches new sustainability certification
The recent World Nut and Dried Fruit Congress, organised by the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC), attracted over 1,520 professionals from 73 countries to Mallorca, Spain, from May 8 to 10, 2025. This event served as a prominent platform for discussions on innovation, sustainability, and industry challenges, encompassing a wide spectrum of stakeholders from farmers to retailers.
According to the announcement, preliminary discussions at the congress indicated a stable outlook for global tree nut production for the 2025/26 season, estimated at around 6 million metric tons. Specific growth projections were noted for macadamias, walnuts, and almonds, which are expected to see increases of 9%, 6%, and 2%, respectively. In contrast, global dried fruit production is anticipated to experience a slight decline of 2%, amounting to around 3.2 million metric tons. These insights align with recent industry reports indicating fluctuating yields due to unpredictable weather and rising production costs, as highlighted in other industry analyses.
One of the significant developments at the congress was the introduction of the INC Sustainability Certification, presented by Executive Director Goretti Guasch. This certification aims to validate and enhance sustainability efforts within the industry, a move indicative of the growing demand for transparent supply chains and eco-friendly practices among consumers. This aligns with a broader trend in the food industry, where environmentally responsible production processes are becoming essential for maintaining competitive advantage and meeting regulatory standards.
Additionally, the congress featured a keynote address by Toni Nadal, renowned coach of tennis champion Rafa Nadal, who shared insights on resilience and confronting adversity, further enriching the event's intellectual and emotional dimensions. The Nutrition Research Seminar highlighted scientific evidence advocating for the health benefits of nuts and dried fruits, reinforcing the sector's commitment to promoting the nutritional value of these products amidst growing public health concerns.
On the organisational front, the INC witnessed a leadership transition from Michael Waring to Ashok Krishen, the new Chairman, who outlined key priorities for the future, stressing the need for increased consumption and enhanced sustainability measures. This leadership change underscores a pivotal moment for the INC as it seeks to navigate the evolving market landscape and serve its member organisations effectively.
In addition to strategic discussions, the congress spotlighted individual and corporate excellence within the sector, awarding the Corporate Golden Nut Award to Mercadona and recognising Dr. David Baer of the USDA for his contributions to research. Such recognitions aim to inspire innovation and uphold high standards of quality and research within the industry.
The event concluded with a collective commitment among participants to foster growth and sustainability in the nuts and dried fruit sector. As consumer preferences increasingly shift towards healthier, more sustainable food options, the industry's adaptability will be paramount. The INC’s upcoming initiatives, including the INC Sustainability Institute, signal a proactive approach to addressing these challenges, aiming to embed sustainable practices deeply within the sector’s operational frameworks in alignment with emerging global standards.
In summary, the congress not only provided a forum for discussing industry challenges and opportunities but also reaffirmed the sector's dedication to sustainability, innovation, and health, illustrating the INC's pivotal role in leading the industry forward.