• Global pistachio prices rose to $4.57 per pound amid supply disruptions in Iran and the United States.

• South Africa aims to scale production from 20 tonnes in 2025 to 60,000 tonnes by 2040.

• Producers target up to 8% of global export market share over the long term.

The conflict in Iran, the world’s second-largest pistachio producer, and weaker output in the United States, the leading supplier, have pushed global prices upward. As a result, pistachio prices reached $4.57 per pound (0.45 kg), the highest level in eight years.

This environment is encouraging South African producers to pursue new growth opportunities and position themselves as alternative suppliers for importers seeking to diversify sourcing amid rising global demand.

Changing consumption trends have boosted pistachio demand in recent years. Food manufacturers are increasingly using pistachios in chocolate bars, ice cream and coffee products, which has strengthened market momentum.

Against this backdrop, South Africa plans to expand production from 20 tonnes in 2025 to 60,000 tonnes by 2040. This target would allow the country to rank among the world’s sixth or seventh largest producers and capture between 5% and 8% of global export market share.

“The production of pistachios is concentrated in Northern Hemisphere countries, and many of these regions face water constraints, climate pressures or political risks, which creates a clear opportunity for us to enter this market,” said David Muller, chief executive of Karoo Pistachios, in an interview with Bloomberg on April 24.

South Africa, already the world’s leading producer of macadamia nuts and the third-largest producer of pecans, is relying on the Karoo region as the core of its pistachio strategy.

The Karoo remains the only region on the continent where large-scale pistachio cultivation is currently viable, although trials have taken place in Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia.

“By nature, pistachios suit the extreme conditions of the Karoo,”David Muller said. “The Karoo has a climate very close to that of the Middle East. We are truly at the beginning of a phase of growth and expansion.”

This article was initially published in French by Espoir Olodo

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum