Zimbabwe’s Macadamia Nut Exports Surge by 77%, Driving Horticulture Growth

Zimbabwe’s horticulture sector continues to show strong growth, with macadamia nuts leading the charge. In a major boost to the industry, macadamia nut export receipts have recorded an impressive 77% increase, marking a significant rebound and underscoring the crop’s rising global demand.

The surge reflects a growing international appetite for health-focused, plant-based products — with macadamia nuts now recognised for their nutritional value, versatility, and profitability. Rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and essential nutrients, the nuts have gained favour among health-conscious consumers, particularly those adopting plant-based or clean-eating lifestyles.

Globally, the macadamia market is booming. It was valued at US$1.58 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.3% from 2023 to 2030. This momentum is being powered by a blend of health trends, evolving food preferences, and increased demand from the culinary and snack industries.

The Asia-Pacific region — led by China — remains the largest consumer of macadamia nuts. The region’s fast-expanding food and beverage sector, coupled with a growing middle class and demand for premium ingredients, is driving up Zimbabwe’s export figures.

In 2024 alone, Zimbabwe exported 1,620 tonnes of macadamia nuts to key markets, including China, the European Union, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. This marks one of the country’s most successful export years for the crop to date.

The Eastern Highlands — particularly Honde Valley, Chimanimani, and Chipinge in Manicaland — are the primary production zones. These areas benefit from favourable soils and climate, which support the crop’s consistent quality and yield.

Linda Nielsen, CEO of the Horticulture Development Council (HDC), attributed the positive growth to increased investment, research and development, and expanded farmer support.

“The increase in macadamia exports results from a combination of factors. These include increased investment in orchards and greater support for both commercial and small-scale growers through training and access to inputs,” said Nielsen.

She added that the rising global demand for healthy food presents a key opportunity for Zimbabwe to position its macadamia nuts as a premium export product.

Over the past five years, there has been steady expansion in production areas, especially involving smallholder farmers who are now contributing significantly alongside major estates like Ariston, Tanganda, and Cicada. Many of these small-scale producers are benefitting from out-grower schemes, access to financing, and improved technical support.

Despite the progress, Nielsen noted several challenges that still need to be addressed — chief among them being limited access to affordable long-term financing, high input costs, power shortages, and infrastructure gaps.

“To remain competitive, we must address systemic issues such as poor access roads, erratic power supply for processing, and the ongoing threat of pests and diseases,” she said.

Zimbabwe has enjoyed preferential access to the EU market under the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) since 2012. However, Nielsen stressed the importance of enabling policies, including affordable utilities and a review of the foreign currency retention policy, to fully leverage international opportunities.

The macadamia sector is now regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s most promising agricultural export earners. As both small-scale and commercial farmers ramp up investment, the country is poised to become a more dominant player in the global macadamia supply chain — a shift that could further anchor its broader horticultural resurgence.