Introduction
2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the walnut trade. With the global market valued at approximately $8.5 billion, traders and exporters are asking a key question: Which format — shelled kernels or in-shell walnuts — brings higher profit? This article explains the economic dynamics, price drivers, and market trends shaping this decision for global buyers and sellers.
In-shell walnuts continue to command the largest share of total volume worldwide — about 57% of the walnut market in 2024. Meanwhile, shelled walnuts (kernels) are growing faster due to rising demand from food manufacturers and premium retail segments.
• Pros:
– High export volumes
– Long shelf life
– Lower processing cost
• Cons:
– Includes non-edible shells
– Lower revenue per kilo
In-shells are ideal for bulk traders and large consignments, especially where shipment logistics favor lower processing overhead.
Kernels offer several profit advantages:
- Buyers pay only for edible weight
- Higher demand in retail, food processing, and premium segments
- Easier entry into value-added exports
However, kernels require cracking, grading, and packaging, which increases processing costs but often yields higher net revenue per kilo than in-shell.
- Asia & Middle East — Fast-growing markets for premium kernels.
- Europe — Sees consistent demand for both in-shell and kernels.
- USA & Chile — Major producers exporting both formats globally.
- Germany — Key European distribution hub, especially for shelled walnuts.
Price offers for walnuts depend heavily on batch size and sorting quality. Better-graded kernels command significantly higher prices compared with mixed or poorly sorted lots — especially in high-value export markets.
• Kernels target premium markets willing to pay more per kilogram.
• In-shell formats rely on bulk pricing and volume sales.
• For traders with processing access, kernels often deliver higher margins even after additional costs.
For 2025:
- Combine both formats — use in-shell walnuts for volume sales and kernels for high-value deals.
- Focus on quality grading — better sorting = better prices.
- Target regional markets strategically — the Middle East and Europe offer premium kernel demand.
Conclusion
In today’s walnut trade landscape, shelled kernels typically bring higher profit per kilogram, while in-shell walnuts excel in volume and stable market share. A balanced export strategy capturing both segments is key to maximizing revenue in 2025.
2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the walnut trade. With the global market valued at approximately $8.5 billion, traders and exporters are asking a key question: Which format — shelled kernels or in-shell walnuts — brings higher profit? This article explains the economic dynamics, price dr
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