The Almond Board of Australia (ABA) is the national representative organization of the Australian almond industry, responsible for driving research, marketing, sustainability, and international trade support for almond growers, processors, and exporters. As the authoritative voice for Australian almonds, ABA ensures the global competitiveness and quality assurance of almonds grown across Australia's major producing regions.
Organization Overview
Established as an industry-led body, the Almond Board of Australia is headquartered in Loxton, South Australia, one of the country’s prime almond-growing regions. It oversees an integrated value chain—from on-farm innovation to market development—and represents a sector that contributes significantly to Australia's agricultural exports.
With a strong emphasis on quality, innovation, and environmental stewardship, the ABA promotes the global brand Australian Almonds, showcasing premium varieties and sustainable farming practices on the world stage.
Core Products and Offerings
The ABA represents a wide portfolio of almond products cultivated and processed by its members:
Almond Varieties
- Nonpareil – Premium export-grade almond known for smooth surface and light color.
- Carmel – Medium-soft shell almond suitable for slicing and dicing.
- Monterey – Soft shell variety with high kernel yield.
- Price – Similar to Nonpareil with slightly thicker shell and rich flavor.
Value-Added Almond Products
- Blanched Whole Almonds
- Slivered and Flaked Almonds
- Almond Meal
- Almond Paste and Butter
These are used across bakery, confectionery, dairy alternatives, and plant-based protein segments globally.
Specialization and Unique Selling Proposition
The ABA and its members focus on:
- World-Class Product Quality – Consistent sizing, color, and flavor from highly controlled post-harvest processes.
- Clean and Safe Produce – All almonds are non-GMO, low in aflatoxins, and meet stringent EU, US, and Asian standards.
- Sustainable Almond Farming – Utilization of water-efficient micro-irrigation, carbon reduction targets, and bee-safe practices.
- Research-Driven Innovation – National Almond Breeding Program for disease resistance, yield, and climate adaptability.
Target Market
Australian almonds are exported to over 50 countries, with major markets including:
- India
- China
- Japan
- Vietnam
- United Arab Emirates
- European Union
- United States
Key buyer segments include:
- Bulk Ingredient Buyers (Food Manufacturers)
- Nut and Dried Fruit Importers
- Retail Brands and Supermarkets
- Health and Nutrition Brands
Industry Capabilities
- Total Bearing Area (2023): Over 60,000 hectares across South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales
- Annual Production (2023): Approx. 130,000 metric tonnes of kernel
- Irrigation Efficiency: Over 90% of orchards utilize drip or micro-spray systems
- Processing Facilities: Operated by 10+ major processors with BRC, HACCP, and ISO certifications
- Export Readiness: All major processors hold EU approval and U.S. FDA compliance
Financials and Market Size
- Industry Value (2023): AUD 1.5 billion
- Export Value (2023): Over AUD 800 million
- Average Kernel Price (2023): AUD 6.00–7.20/kg
- Top Export Product: Nonpareil almonds in-shell and shelled
Export and Logistics
- HS Code: 080212 (Almonds, shelled), 080211 (Almonds, in-shell)
- Ports of Exit: Port of Melbourne and Port Adelaide
- Major Importers: India (35%), China (15%), Vietnam (10%), EU and Gulf combined (25%)
Certifications and Compliance
- HACCP Certified
- BRC Global Standard for Food Safety
- Australian Government Export Registered Establishments
- Bee Friendly Farming® Certification
- Global GAP Compliance among growers
- Almond Board of California Equivalency for Food Safety
Media and Resources
Customer Testimonials
“Australian almonds are among the cleanest and safest we import. The consistency and support from ABA has streamlined our sourcing.”
– Nut Importer, India
“The value-added almond products from Australia have opened up innovation pipelines for our snack brands in Japan.”
– R&D Director, Japanese Snack Manufacturer
Major Achievements
- Exported over 100,000 MT of almond kernel globally in 2023.
- Expanded adoption of bee-safe farming practices across 80% of orchards.
- Completed launch of climate-resilient almond cultivars under the National Almond Breeding Program.
- Active participant in Gulfood, SIAL Paris, and Anuga Germany, promoting the Australian Almonds brand globally.
The Almond Board of Australia continues to lead the global almond industry with its focus on quality, sustainability, and innovation—ensuring Australian almonds remain a benchmark for excellence worldwide.
