The 2025 Chilean walnut season is progressing with strong figures. According to the latest report from Chilenut, cumulative shipments as of January 31, 2026 reached 173,286 metric tons in-shell equivalent, representing a 28% increase compared to the same period of the previous season.
In the in-shell walnut segment, India continues to consolidate its position as Chile’s leading market, with nearly 28,000 tons exported so far this season. The volume maintains its strategic importance despite the 100% import tariff currently in force in India, reflecting the strong demand for Chilean walnuts in the Indian market.
However, the sector’s momentum is not concentrated in a single destination. In the Middle East, Turkey increased its purchases by 62%, surpassing 17,000 tons of in-shell shipments. In Europe, Italy remains a key market with more than 10,500 tons of in-shell walnuts (+26%) and over 3,800 tons of kernels (+20%), while Germany and the Netherlands stand out in kernel imports with increases of 96% and 162%, respectively.
These figures reflect the walnut industry’s ongoing market diversification and active commercial strategy, as Chile strengthens its presence in traditional destinations while also expanding into new demand hubs.
The next harvest will begin in March with the Serr variety and continue in early April with Chandler, Chile’s main export variety. This calendar marks the start of the 2026 commercial cycle, activating the entire value chain ahead of a season that is generating positive expectations in the sector, both in terms of volume and quality.
