Fuelled by premium produce, expert growers and expanding international demand, Queensland’s macadamia industry is ripe with opportunity.
Queensland is home to Australia’s largest macadamia-producing regions including Bundaberg, delivering almost 70 per cent 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 per cent of Australia’s macadamia crop destined for export success, Queensland is positioned as a powerhouse of premium nut production. A clean environment, advanced farming techniques and robust supply chains make Queensland-grown macadamias a smart choice for discerning international buyers.
Australian Macadamia Society chief executive officer Clare Hamilton-Bate said Queensland growers have long been leaders in the industry.
“Their commitment to quality and innovation ensures Australian macadamias continue to set the global benchmark,“ she said.
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 per cent of consumers have bought a product specifically because it contains macadamias.
Consumers want to see macadamias used in products more often across multiple categories.
There are 69 per cent of consumers believe Australian grown macadamias taste better and 73 per cent believe they are better quality.
Macadamia consumption is set to grow with 90 per cent 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.”
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, 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.
Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, Ros Bates said Queensland has a powerful story to tell when it comes to premium, sustainable food—and macadamias are one of our quiet achievers on the world stage and championed Queensland produce during her successful trade mission to India in March.
“Eight Queensland companies were showcased during the mission, including Australia’s largest macadamia grower, processor and marketer, Marquis Macadamias, which sources from Bundaberg,“ Minister Bates said.
“Bundaberg growers are already leading the way—and we’re backing them every step of the journey to take Queensland’s best to the world.“
Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ) works closely with the Australian Macadamia Society and leading growers to ensure Queensland producers can access the right networks, market intelligence and export support.
Whether it’s identifying new international buyers, navigating regulatory changes, or taking part in targeted trade missions, TIQ is helping Queensland macadamias reach more markets, more efficiently.
Global demand for macadamias is on the rise—and Queensland is ready.
With world-class orchards, a focus on innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality, Queensland macadamias are setting the benchmark for what premium, healthy food should be.
