List of Top Almond-Producing Countries

Almonds are among the world’s most valuable nut crops, cultivated primarily in regions with Mediterranean climates that feature warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Global almond production is dominated by a few key countries, with the United States accounting for the majority of the supply, followed by other producers across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. The following is an overview of the leading almond-producing nations based on recent agricultural output trends.

1. United States of America

The United States is by far the largest producer of almonds in the world, contributing nearly 80% of global production. The state of California is the hub of almond cultivation, with more than a million acres of almond orchards spread across the Central Valley. Annual production typically ranges between 1.8 to 2 million tonnes. The region’s favourable climate, advanced irrigation systems, and modern agricultural practices have enabled consistently high yields. Almonds form one of California’s top agricultural exports, generating significant revenue and employment.

2. Australia

Australia ranks second globally, producing around 300,000 to 360,000 tonnes of almonds annually. Major production regions include South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales, particularly along the Murray-Darling Basin. The country’s almond industry has expanded rapidly over the past two decades, benefitting from technological innovation, large-scale irrigation, and export-oriented farming. Australian almonds are primarily exported to India, China, and Europe.

3. Spain

Spain is Europe’s leading almond producer, with an annual output of approximately 200,000 to 300,000 tonnes. Almond cultivation is concentrated in regions such as Andalusia, Valencia, Murcia, and Catalonia, where traditional dryland farming techniques are combined with modern cultivation methods. Spanish almonds are prized for their distinct flavour and quality, particularly varieties such as Marcona and Desmayo Largueta. Spain not only supplies the European market but also exports to North America and the Middle East.

4. Iran

Iran has a long history of almond cultivation, producing between 140,000 and 150,000 tonnes annually. Almond farming is concentrated in the provinces of Kerman, Fars, and Isfahan. The crop is well-suited to Iran’s semi-arid climate, and both sweet and bitter almond varieties are grown. Almonds play a significant role in Iran’s domestic consumption, culinary traditions, and exports to neighbouring countries.

5. Morocco

Morocco ranks among the top African almond producers, with production averaging between 100,000 and 175,000 tonnes per year. The main almond-growing areas include the Souss-Massa region, Tafraoute, and the Atlas foothills. Morocco’s almonds are mainly cultivated by small-scale farmers, and the crop contributes significantly to rural livelihoods and agroforestry systems. The country’s government has promoted almond cultivation under agricultural development programmes aimed at improving rural income and combating soil erosion.

6. Turkey

Turkey is another prominent almond producer, with output ranging from 85,000 to 190,000 tonnes annually. Major production areas include Aydın, Muğla, Mersin, and Antalya, where the Mediterranean climate supports both irrigated and rainfed almond orchards. Turkey’s almond production has increased steadily due to government incentives, replantation schemes, and rising domestic demand for nuts and confectionery. Turkish almonds are known for their quality and are used both for direct consumption and in the food-processing industry.

Other Notable Producers

Beyond the top six, several other countries contribute significantly to global almond production:

• Italy, producing high-quality almonds in regions such as Sicily and Apulia.
• Tunisia, known for its dryland almond cultivation.
• India, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh.
• Pakistan, with almonds grown in Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan.
• China, where almond cultivation is expanding in Xinjiang province.

These nations, though smaller producers compared to the United States, play important roles in regional markets and contribute to global almond diversity and trade.

Global Overview and Trade Significance

The global almond market has seen sustained growth due to rising consumer demand for healthy snacks, plant-based products, and nutritious food ingredients. Almonds are valued for their rich protein, vitamin E, and healthy fat content. They are used in a wide range of products such as almond milk, butter, flour, and confectionery.
The United States, Australia, and Spain dominate international almond exports, while countries such as India, China, and Germany are leading importers. Growing awareness of health and wellness continues to drive consumption across emerging economies, making almonds one of the most traded tree nuts in the world.

Summary Table of Top Almond Producers