The Nature of the Macadamia Nut industry in Australia is such that it requires a significant level of professional skill amongst growers, processors and marketers. The importance of the industry to the Australian economy in terms of its contribution to local employment and investment as well as domestic and export markets cannot be overstated. It is estimated that the current market value of the Australian crop on the domestic and export makes is over A$100m. This makes it one of Australia's largest hoticultural industries. As the total world production of Macadamias accounts for less than 2% of the total world trade in tree nuts there is considerable scope for future expansion.

The Industry in Australia is evolving and expanding rapidly as production increases. With an estimated production of 30,000 tonne for the year 2000 and increased competition from developing countries in Central America and Southern Africa, Australia must continue to foster its repuation as a producer of high quality Macadamia nuts. Australia's market share should increase as a result of the current emphasis on scientific research into improving crop yields, production methods and processing efficiencies.

Australian exporters have developed major markets for bulk raw macadamia nuts in many different grades, value added products and retail packs. In excess of 60% of nut kernels produced in Australia is directly exported to the world market. The Australian market has expanded enormously in recent years with many new high quality value added products available.



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