Queensland macadamias cracking open global opportunities

Queensland is home to Australia’s largest macadamia-producing regions, delivering almost 70% of the national crop. Known for their buttery taste, crunchy texture and health credentials, Queensland macadamias are increasingly sought after by health-conscious consumers, chefs and food manufacturers around the globe. 

With more than 75% of Australia’s macadamia crop destined for export success, Queensland is positioned as a powerhouse of premium nut production. Our clean environment, advanced farming techniques and robust supply chains make Queensland-grown macadamias a smart choice for discerning international buyers. 

“Queensland growers have long been leaders in the industry. Their commitment to quality and innovation ensures Australian macadamias continue to set the global benchmark,”

Clare Hamilton-Bate, CEO of the Australian Macadamia Society. 

Meeting global demand for premium, healthy snacks 

International consumers are increasingly turning to nutrient-rich, sustainably sourced foods and macadamias tick all the boxes.  

Recent global research commissioned by the Australian Macadamia Society* revealed: 

• more than 80% of consumers have bought a product specifically because it contains macadamias 
• consumers want to see macadamias used in products more often across multiple categories 
• 69% of consumers believe Australian grown macadamias taste better and 73% believe they are better quality macadamia consumption is set to grow with 90% of consumers planning to buy the same amount or more macadamias over the next year. 

Macadamias are a regarded as a “hero” ingredient—celebrated not only for their health benefits, but also for their versatility across sweet and savoury formats, dairy alternatives, snack blends, and even plant-based meats and cheeses. 

“Consumers are telling us that they see macadamias as more than just a snack—they see them as an investment in their health and wellbeing - that opens up huge opportunities for Queensland producers across a range of food categories.” 

Ms Hamilton-Bate.

A growing global footprint

Queensland macadamias are already making their mark in major export markets including Japan, South Korea, China, Germany and the United States.  

These markets recognise the premium quality of Australian macadamias, and Queensland exporters continue to build strong trade partnerships to support long-term growth. 

India has recently emerged as a promising new frontier. With a growing middle class and a deep cultural appreciation for nuts, India is proving highly receptive to Australian macadamias.  

Thanks to improved technical access and a progressive tariff reduction schedule under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA), Queensland exporters are well-placed to capitalise on this high-potential market. 

The Australian Macadamia Festival will be held in Bengaluru, India, 9-16 September 2025, showcasing the versatility of macadamias across a range of culinary settings. Organised by the Australia Macadamia Society, the festival aims to broaden the nut's appeal beyond niche markets by featuring it in a variety of food and beverage establishments, including high-end restaurants, patisseries and bars.