The global hazelnut kernel market is experiencing a remarkable period of growth, fueled by rising consumer interest in healthy snacks, plant-based nutrition, and premium confectionery products. As international demand expands, especially across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, hazelnuts have become a cornerstone ingredient in numerous industries—from chocolate manufacturing to dairy alternatives.

At Tamila Agrifood, we stay at the forefront of these developments, tracking export opportunities, market dynamics, and trade shifts to ensure our partners make informed buying decisions.

The Global Demand Landscape for Hazelnuts

Over the past decade, the global demand for hazelnuts has increased steadily—particularly for processed kernels (roasted, chopped, or paste form). According to trade data, the European Union remains the largest consumer, accounting for nearly 70% of total global demand. Countries like Germany, Italy, and France import large volumes for chocolate, bakery, and dessert manufacturing.

Meanwhile, demand is rising rapidly in Asia-Pacific markets, especially in China, Japan, and South Korea, where hazelnuts are gaining popularity in breakfast cereals, protein bars, and dairy-free beverages. In the Middle East, hazelnuts are used in traditional sweets and premium nut mixes, with markets like UAE and Saudi Arabia acting as major re-export hubs.

Key Drivers of Market Growth

Several interconnected trends are shaping the future of the hazelnut industry:

1.   Health & Wellness Movement:

Consumers are shifting toward protein-rich, heart-healthy foods. Hazelnuts, packed with unsaturated fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants, align perfectly with these preferences.

2.   Expansion of Plant-Based Products:

Hazelnut milk, butter, and spreads are rising in demand due to growing vegan and lactose-free lifestyles.

3.   Premiumization in Confectionery:

Major chocolate brands are increasingly incorporating high-grade hazelnuts (like whole roasted kernels) to enhance product quality and flavor profiles.

4.   Sustainability & Traceability:

Buyers are now seeking responsibly sourced hazelnuts with certifications like Organic, Fair Trade, and HACCP. Exporters that can demonstrate transparent supply chains have a significant competitive edge.

5.   Growing Industrial Applications:

Beyond snacking, hazelnuts are now used in cosmetics and nutritional supplements, expanding the market’s vertical reach.

Regional Export and Trade Insights

1. Europe (EU Zone):

•    Remains the largest consumer and importer, dominated by confectionery producers.

•    Stringent quality and traceability standards apply, making ISO and HACCP certifications essential.

2. Middle East & North Africa (MENA):

•    Acts as a vibrant distribution center.

•    UAE, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia import hazelnuts in bulk, often for repackaging and re-export.

3. Asia-Pacific Region:

•    Experiencing rapid expansion in demand, led by snack manufacturers and health food producers.

•    China’s e-commerce boom has driven retail hazelnut sales to record highs.

4. North America:

•    The U.S. and Canada have increased imports as plant-based and natural snack trends dominate retail shelves.

Pricing Trends and Market Volatility

The price of hazelnut kernels fluctuates according to crop yield, currency changes, and global freight costs. While Turkey remains the leading producer and exporter (covering about 70% of global supply), diversification toward other regions such as Iran, Georgia, and Azerbaijan is helping stabilize the market and improve supply reliability.

Buyers working through exporters like Tamila Agrifood gain access to more stable pricing frameworks and flexible sourcing options, reducing the impact of market volatility.

The Future Demand Outlook (2025–2030)

Market forecasts predict a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of approximately 6–7% for global hazelnut consumption through 2030. This growth will be fueled by:

•    Expanding use of hazelnuts in functional foods and plant-based ingredients.

•    Rising demand from emerging markets like India, Indonesia, and Egypt.

•    Increasing investment in value-added processing (roasted, chopped, flavored hazelnuts).

•    Continuous innovation by global confectionery brands such as Ferrero, Nestlé, and Mondelez.

In essence, the future of hazelnuts is not just about supply—it’s about adaptability, innovation, and sustainable partnerships.

Strategic Opportunities for Buyers and Distributors

Buyers can position themselves strategically in this growing market by:

•    Securing long-term contracts with reliable suppliers to lock in prices.

•    Investing in value-added hazelnut products (roasted or chopped varieties).

•    Prioritizing suppliers with traceable and certified origins.

•    Monitoring consumer trends in health and sustainability.

At Tamila Agrifood, we guide our international partners in optimizing sourcing strategies, balancing pricing stability, and maintaining product quality consistency across markets.

Why Partner with Tamila Agrifood?

Our team combines years of trade experience with in-depth market intelligence to deliver consistent, high-quality hazelnut exports. With access to multiple origins and processing facilities, we provide:

•    Custom bulk pricing and framework agreements.

•    Certified product quality (ISO, HACCP, Organic, Halal).

•    Flexible logistics via sea, air, and multimodal transport.

•    Market insights and demand forecasts tailored to your region.

We don’t just supply hazelnuts — we help build sustainable trade relationships that empower global buyers.

Final Thoughts

The hazelnut industry stands at an exciting intersection of health, luxury, and sustainability. As global consumers demand better quality and cleaner supply chains, forward-thinking buyers who align with transparent and certified exporters like Tamila Agrifood are best positioned to thrive.

If you’re seeking a long-term partner for hazelnut kernel imports, contact us today to receive a customized quotation and stay ahead of the global market curve.

Email:  tamilaagrifood@gmail.com

WhatsApp for Quotations & Inquiries:  +989141858935