The Largest Producers of Almonds Across the World
Almonds may seem like a simple grocery staple, but their journey often spans continents. Two of the largest producers of almonds are the United States, and Australia, with most of the world’s supply coming from just a few key origins. For small food brands crafting almond-based products, knowing which regions lead production can guide smarter, more reliable sourcing. Let’s explore global almond output and how it can help you create standout products and lasting partnerships.
Global Almond Production at a Glance
Almond farming spans the globe, yet production is concentrated in a few regions. Each year, an estimated 1.5 to 1.6 million metric tons of almonds are harvested worldwide. California leads by a wide margin, supplying about 75–80% of the total, followed by Australia with roughly 9–10% and Spain as Europe’s largest contributor.
For small food businesses, this concentration can be an advantage. Sourcing from major production hubs offers access to consistent quality, predictable supply, and established distribution channels. Knowing where most almonds originate helps brands secure reliable ingredients for almond-based products, reduce sourcing risks, and plan production with greater confidence.
What Are the Largest Producers of Almonds Across the World?
A handful of regions dominate the global almond market, supplying the majority of almonds that end up in products worldwide. Knowing who leads production can help you identify reliable sources, anticipate market trends, and secure quality ingredients for your formulations.
California, United States
California produces about 80% of the world’s almonds, thanks to its ideal Mediterranean climate, advanced irrigation, and robust pollination systems. With 1.38 million acres of orchards, most managed by family farmers, the state yields over 2.80 billion tons in a good year. Strict quality standards and grading ensure consistency, making California almonds a dependable choice for large and small buyers alike.
Around 70% of California’s crop is exported to more than 100 countries, valued between $4.5 and $4.9 billion annually. This strong export infrastructure means small businesses can access premium almonds in various formats, whole, sliced, or processed, knowing supply and quality are stable year after year.
Australia
Australia now produces roughly 10% of global almonds, mainly from southern regions with climates similar to California’s. Production has increased to 120,000–160,000 metric tons annually, driven by the expansion of orchards and demand from Asia. Geographic proximity and favorable trade conditions have made Australia a strong supplier to markets like China and India.
Despite water limitations, high costs, and concerns about pollination, the country maintains modern, efficient orchards. For small brands, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, Australian almonds can provide a reliable alternative, though U.S. almonds still set global benchmarks for pricing and availability.
Spain and Other Significant Producers
Spain is Europe’s top almond grower, producing over 110,242 metric tons annually, with the potential to reach 300,000 tonnes in the coming years. Regions like Catalonia, Valencia, and Andalusia are known for both traditional orchards and newer irrigated plantations, offering unique varieties such as the prized Marcona almond.
Other producers, including Iran, Turkey, and Morocco, contribute smaller shares but remain important in regional markets and specialty products. While these origins add diversity to the market, California, Australia, and Spain together drive global pricing, availability, and quality standards.
What Is the Difference Between Export Leadership vs. Production?
The largest almond producers are also the top exporters, with the five leading countries accounting for over 90% of global export value. The United States dominates the market, accounting for approximately 66% of export dollars, with shipments of roughly $4.8 billion worth of almonds in 2024. Spain follows with around 13% and $1 billion, and Australia holds about 6% with $470 million. Together, these three origins supply most of the almonds found in products worldwide.
Some countries, such as the Netherlands and Germany, appear in export rankings despite not producing almonds; instead, they act as re-export hubs. For small brands, this concentration makes sourcing simpler and more predictable, with quality and pricing often tied to California’s crop. Partnering with suppliers connected to these top regions ensures access to consistent, high-quality almonds and stable supply chains.
Why Almond Sourcing Businesses Benefit from California’s Lead
California’s position as the largest producer of almonds brings reliability, quality, and built-in advantages for food businesses. For brands developing almond-based products, sourcing in California means:
- Consistent Supply: California’s vast almond acreage and steady production volumes ensure year-round availability, helping brands avoid ingredient shortages and maintain production schedules.
- Reliable Quality: Strict grading, sorting, and food safety practices result in almonds with a consistent flavor profile and texture, supporting product uniformity and consumer trust.
- Strong Traceability: Almonds can often be traced back to the orchard, adding transparency and storytelling value for brands focused on clean-label and responsible sourcing.
- Advanced Infrastructure: A mature network of processors, packers, and logistics partners enables businesses to access almonds in various formats, with different certifications, and in quantities that meet their specific needs.
- Flexibility for Small Brands: Some suppliers specialize in supporting startups and emerging brands, like JSS Almonds, offering small MOQs, custom processing, and consumer-ready packaging to help bring new almond-based products to market with ease.
Take the Next Step in Your Almond Formulations with JSS Almonds
California leads global almond production, with Australia and Spain adding to the world’s supply. For food businesses, sourcing from these regions, especially California, means access to consistent quality, reliable volumes, and a supply chain equipped to meet both large-scale and specialized needs.
JSS Almonds brings these advantages directly to small brands, offering premium California-grown almonds with small MOQs, flexible packaging, and custom formulations. With products ranging from almond butters and pastes to retail-ready pouches, we help turn ideas into products that stand out.
Contact us to explore how we can support your next almond innovation.