The 2024 macadamia crop forecast has been revised, with adverse weather conditions the primary factor.
The updated forecast estimates a production of 50,830 tonnes in-shell at 3.5 per cent moisture (54,500 tonnes in-shell at 10% moisture), down from the previous estimate of 56,000 tonnes in-shell at 3.5 per cent moisture (60,000 tonnes in-shell at 10 per cent moisture).
Despite the nine per cent reduction from earlier projections, the revised forecast still anticipates a crop five per cent larger than the previous year, with improvements in kernel recovery and nut size compared to 2023, and overall quality looking good.
Australian Macadamia Society CEO Clare Hamilton-Bate says for many growers the 2024 harvest season has again been challenging with prolonged heat and then extended wet weather, leading to yield losses across key growing regions.
“In Bundaberg, our largest macadamia growing region, harvest is nearing completion, but early indications suggest a slightly lower intake than initially forecast, the crop impacted by prolonged heat earlier in the growing season “ she said.
“In most other growing regions, the wet conditions have significantly hindered growers, and many have only recently been able to get on farm to start their first harvest rounds.
“Some orchards still have areas that are inaccessible,” Ms Hamilton-Bate added.
The AMS will review the crop forecast again in September, with the final 2024 Australian macadamia crop figure to be announced in early December.
