Georgia’s Hazelnut Export Growth and Global Market Trends

Over the past seven months, Georgia has shown significant progress in the field of hazelnut exports. According to data from the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, from August 1, 2024, to March 3, 2025, Georgia exported 13.7 thousand tons of hazelnuts, with a total value of 84.4 million USD. This figure represents an 18% increase in volume and a 36% increase in value compared to the same period last year. Additionally, the average export price of hazelnuts increased by 16%, reaching 6.14 USD per kilogram.

The primary destinations for Georgia’s hazelnut exports are European Union countries, including Italy, Spain, Germany, France, Poland, and the Czech Republic. Furthermore, exports have been made to Armenia, China, Turkey, Israel, Russia, and Ukraine.

On the global market, hazelnut production and demand continue to grow steadily. According to the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC), global hazelnut production in 2023-2024 reached approximately 1.1 million tons, which is a 5% increase compared to the previous year. The main factors behind this growth include increased production in Turkey, Italy, and Azerbaijan. Turkey remains the world’s largest hazelnut producer, accounting for approximately 70% of global production.

Demand for hazelnuts is particularly increasing in the confectionery and food industries, where hazelnuts are used as ingredients in chocolates, pastries, and other products. The European market, especially Germany and Italy, represents the largest consumers of hazelnuts, creating favorable conditions for Georgia to expand its exports.

The development of Georgia’s hazelnut sector plays an important role in the country’s economy. Hazelnut production and export provide jobs in the regions and increase revenue within the agricultural sector. However, it is crucial for producers to improve product quality and maintain international standards to stay competitive in the global market.

Overall, the growth of Georgia’s hazelnut exports and the positive trends in the global market indicate promising prospects for the sector. However, continued investments in production technologies, quality control, and marketing are essential to ensure that Georgia remains a competitive player in the international hazelnut market.