Pacific Nut Producer Magazine

Category: Pecans

  • Pecans Shipped to China Must Pay Anti-Dumping Fees

    As of Aug. 11, 2026, importers of pecans from the United States and Mexico must pay provisional anti-dumping duties, in the form of deposits, following a preliminary ruling by the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) announced on Aug. 10. Imports from the United States are subject to a deposit rate of 54.3% of the product value, pushing the total import duty rate for U.S. pecans to 86.3%. This report contains an unofficial translation of the MOFCOM announcement and a table detailing deposit rates for various companies from the two countries.

    General Information

    On Aug. 10, the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) published on its website a preliminary ruling on the anti-dumping investigation of imported pecans from Mexico and the United States (MOFCOM Announcement No. 32 of 2026). The preliminary ruling determines that imports of pecans originating from Mexico and the United States are being dumped, that the domestic pecan industry has suffered substantial harm, and that there is a causal link between the dumping and the substantial harm. Therefore, MOFCOM has decided to implement provisional anti-dumping measures in the form of a security deposit. Effective Aug. 11, when importing pecans originating in Mexico and the United States, importers shall provide security deposits to Chinese Customs based on deposit rates for each company as determined by the preliminary ruling. The MOFCOM spokesman commented that since no U.S. companies participated in the investigation, the deposit rate for all U.S. companies is set at 54.3% based on “facts available,” in accordance with relevant Chinese laws and WTO rules.

    Meanwhile, all interested parties may submit written comments to MOFCOM within 10 days from the issuance date of this announcement (i.e., by Aug. 20). According to the original announcement about the anti-dumping investigation, the final ruling will be published before Sept. 25, with a possible extension of six months. On Sept. 25, 2025, MOFCOM initiated an anti-dumping investigation against pecans imported from Mexico and the United States (MOFCOM Announcement No.52 of 2025). MOFCOM stated that preliminary evidence indicated pecans from Mexico and the United States were exported to China at prices below normal value, causing price undercutting and suppression for like products within the domestic industry. Therefore, MOFCOM had decided to conduct investigations through methods such as questionnaires, samplings, hearings, and on-site verifications.

    The United States and Mexico are the two top pecan producers, followed by South Africa. The United States was the second largest pecan supplier to China in 2024 with an export volume of 18,800 metric tons (MT) (see Table 1). However, pecan exports from all origins to China dropped dramatically in 2025 because of subdued consumption amid an economic downturn.

    In addition to the most favored nation (MFN) tariff, U.S. pecans also face a retaliatory Section 232 tariff (15%), Section 301 tariff (30%, which can be excluded), and reciprocal tariff (10%). Including the anti-dumping duties, the total duty rate imposed on U.S. pecans is 86.3%. Refer to USDA GAIN report CH2025-0209 for the latest tariff updates. Click here to read more about the new policy and rates — Story contributed by the USDA Foreign Ag Service China Staff

  • Land Tax Dispute

     

    Growers in Cochise County, Arizona are fighting back against a proposed tax increase on land used for permanent crops like pistachios, pecans and wine grapes. Growers like John Heuler have fought back and won in tax and appeals courts, but the county is taking the dispute to the State Supreme Court. At the American Pistachio Growers’ Annual Conference, Heuler spoke with Matthew Malcolm from Malcolm Media Ag Publishing to go over the latest details. Watch this quick video and learn more in Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.

    Please thank this video’s sponsor Kingman Ag for their industry support.

  • Pecan Harvest Underway, Tight Supply May Bring Higher Prices

    Pecan harvest is underway, just in time for that Thanksgiving pecan pie; however American pecans are breaking out of their shell and being utilized by consumers around the world in more creative ways than ever before. During the State of the Tree Nut Industry presentations at Malcolm Media Ag Expos, Anne Warden, CEO of the American Pecan Council and American Pecan Promotion Board shared insights on the growth potential of American Pecans. After her address, she met with Matthew Malcolm on California Ag Network to elaborate and provide an update on pecan harvest and the market this year. Watch this brief interview and read more about it in the coming issue of Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.

  • Texas pecans Near Harvest in Challenging Season

    Texas pecan growers are preparing for the 2025 harvest season with a crop outlook that reflects the state’s diversity in weather and geography, according to a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service expert.

    Photo Caption: Pecan harvest is about to begin in parts of the state and will continue into winter. (Laura McKenzie/Texas A&M AgriLife)

    Monte Nesbitt, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension pecan specialist and assistant professor in the Texas A&M Department of Horticultural Sciences, Bryan-College Station, forecast the state’s crop at 32 million pounds, a number that falls near the middle of Texas’ recent production history.

    Texas’ all-time high pecan production was 91 million pounds in 1979, while the record low – 5 million pounds – occurred in 1951.

    “This year would be considered average — maybe mediocre,” Nesbitt said. “Some regions are looking at decent yields, but weather conditions created challenges for others, and crop losses are expected.”

    Weather drives regional differences

    Harvest is about to get underway, but Nesbitt said conditions throughout the growing season created clear contrasts around Texas. He said nut quality remains in question. Cooler, wetter weather around the state helped trees recover from years of drought and triple-digit temperatures, but it also created higher pressure from pecan scab, a fungal disease that can cause fruit loss and reduce nut quality.

    In East Texas, abundant rainfall and more moderate summer temperatures helped tree health but fueled pecan scab. He said pecan yield and quality losses to the disease could be significant in the region, especially for backyard and smaller commercial producers.

    “Even with best management practices, including fungicide applications, we’ve seen crop injury that would suggest the possibility of quality losses for East Texas,” he said. “Scab is the No. 1 biological threat to pecans, and it was back in full force this year.”

    Central Texas pecan trees in some areas encountered spring frost, but the region overall saw better rainfall and a departure from prolonged drought of the previous three years. Many orchards were in an “off year” of their natural alternate bearing cycle and scab was similarly more of a problem in Central Texas than usual. July flooding in some areas also caused tree damage and crop losses.

    In West Texas, the pecan crop potential was lowered in some orchards by an early spring frost and then hail in late spring, but otherwise the growing conditions have been normal and conducive to good production.

    Market challenges persist

    Even as growers look toward the upcoming harvest, market prices remain a pressing concern for producers, Nesbitt said. Wholesale pecan prices have lingered below $2 per pound in recent years, creating financial strain for many producers.

    “There’s frustration across the industry,” Nesbitt said. “Growers don’t understand why prices are so low. It shouldn’t be from oversupply since domestic production has not been really high. It’s generally thought to be a mix of global trade factors and a reduction in the number of shellers.”

    Retail and direct-to-consumer sales remain strong, with increased consumer awareness of expanded ways to cook with pecans beyond traditional holiday baking. Promotion at state, national and local levels are helping boost that awareness, Nesbitt said, but the wholesale outlook remains uncertain.

    “There’s optimism that new markets, like India, could help,” he said. “But right now, the perception among many growers is that current wholesale prices are not sustainable.”

    Long-term perspective for Texas pecans

    Despite market and weather-related pressures, Nesbitt said Texas pecan producers are hoping better days are ahead. The state’s size and regional diversity mean productivity often shifts year by year, creating statewide consistency overall despite localized highs and lows.

    As growers and pecan industry organizations mobilize to raise the nut’s profile with consumers, researchers like Nesbitt continue to work on solutions for pecan scab and other pest and disease issues that increase costs and hamper production.

    “The good news is that scab-resistant varieties exist,” Nesbitt said. “We’re working to identify and develop trees that can hold up and produce good pecans with fewer inputs. That’s the future for growers and homeowners alike.”

  • Diamond of California® Expands Snack Nut Line with New Snack Pecans

    Diamond of California® has announced the launch of Snack Pecans, marking the century-old specialty nut producer’s first-ever exclusively pecan snack offering. The expansion of Diamond’s Snack Nut line features two premier flavors—Sea Salt and Pecan Pie—available now online and on Amazon, with a nationwide in-store rollout planned for this summer.

    “While pecans have long been associated with the holiday season, their distinctive crunch, naturally buttery taste, and nutritional benefits make them an ideal choice for everyday snacking,” said Rachel Ercole, Director of Marketing at Diamond of California®. “The launch of our first dedicated pecan snack line represents a significant milestone for the brand, especially as pecans are driving growth in the flavored snack nuts category, with a large majority of consumers loving their rich, versatile taste that naturally pairs well with both sweet and savory applications.”

    Diamond of California® Snack Pecans Flavors:

    Sea Salt Snack Pecans: Diamond of California®’s new Sea Salt Snack Pecans are masterfully roasted and tossed with sea salt to enhance their natural buttery flavor. This isn’t just another salted nut; it’s a thoughtfully crafted snack that breaks pecans out of their traditional holiday confines. The simple addition of sea salt transforms these pecans into an elevated snacking experience that’s accessible, nutrient-dense, and delicious. (SRP: $3.99/3.25oz bag)

    Pecan Pie Snack Pecans: A dessert classic in snack form. Diamond of California®’s new Pecan Pie Pecans are freshly shelled, roasted, and lightly glazed to perfection. Plus, with the nutritional benefits of pecans these Pecan Pie Pecans make for a deliciously sweet and buttery snack you can feel good about. This flavor was inspired by the brand’s beloved “Favorite Pecan Pie” recipe.(SRP: $3.99/3.25oz bag)

    Diamond of California® Snack Pecans are available online via shop.diamondnuts.com and on Amazon, with a nationwide in-store rollout planned for this summer. To learn more about Snack Pecans and for more information on Diamond of California® visit their website or follow along @DiamondNuts on Instagram and Facebook.

    About Diamond of California®

    Diamond of California®, the century-old producer of specialty nuts, has worked with walnut growers since 1912, making the company one of the earliest pioneers of the farm-to-table movement. The company packages fresh walnuts, almonds, pecans and other culinary nuts in whole, sliced, diced, and chopped forms. Their most recent innovations, Ready-to-Use Nut Pie Crusts and Ready-to-Eat Snack Walnuts & Pecans, can be found in the baking and snack aisles respectively. Headquartered in Stockton, California, Diamond of California® is located in the state’s heartland, where most of its orchards lie. Diamond of California® believes that nuts make good food even better. That’s why they’ve offered fresh, high quality and great tasting nuts that are truly made for homemade, for over 100 years.

  • Replacing Other Snacks with Pecans May Improve Cholesterol, Diet Quality

    Switching daily snack foods to pecans improved cholesterol levels and enhanced overall diet quality, according to a new study by researchers in the Penn State Department of Nutritional Sciences.

    The researchers randomized adults who live with or are at risk for metabolic syndrome — a set of conditions that increase a person’s risk for several chronic diseases — to either consume pecans instead of their usual snacks or to continue eating their usual diet. Participants who ate pecans in lieu of their usual snacks demonstrated reductions across cholesterol measurements linked to poorer heart health compared to those that did not snack on pecans. Additionally, diet quality, as measured by adherence to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, was 17% higher at the conclusion of the study for participants who consumed pecans.

    Results of the study were published in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

    “Replacing typical snacks with pecans improved key risk factors for heart disease including blood cholesterol levels and diet quality,” said Kristina Petersen, associate professor of nutritional sciences at Penn State and co-author of the study. “These results add to the large evidence-base supporting the cardiovascular benefits of nuts and add additional insights into how adults can incorporate nuts into their diet to improve the overall quality of their diet.”

    The study included 138 adults with one or more criteria for metabolic syndrome, including abdominal obesity, high triglycerides, low HDL, high blood pressure and high fasting blood glucose. Participants were 25 to 70 years old and were randomly assigned into two equal groups: pecan snacking group, who were asked to consume two ounces of pecans per day in place of snacks typically consumed, and the usual diet group, who were asked to continue their regular diet.

    Vascular health data and blood work were collected at the start and conclusion of the 12-week study, and self-reported 24-hour recalls were collected nine times during the research. All participants were also instructed to stop eating all other types of nuts and to keep their non-snacking dietary behavior and lifestyle consistent throughout the study.

    In the study, pecan snackers experienced reductions in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, non-high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol and triglycerides compared to non-pecan snackers. LDL cholesterol can build up in arteries and increase the risk of stroke or heart attack. HDL — sometimes known colloquially as “good cholesterol” — carries cholesterol back to the liver for removal from the body. So, both lowering LDL and reducing the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL can reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease. Triglycerides are a necessary lipid for energy storage and metabolism, but high levels of triglycerides also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

    In addition, study participants who ate pecans showed higher overall adherence to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025, with increased intakes of other under-consumed food groups, such as plant proteins and seafood.

    According to the team, prior research by others in the field suggests that chemical compounds with anti-inflammatory properties called polyphenols in pecans may support endothelial function, a key factor in maintaining healthy blood vessels. The current study did not find differences in vascular health outcomes between the two groups, but the researchers said people in the United States should consider consuming more foods with polyphenols — like pecans, fruits, vegetables and whole grains — to support heart health and improve overall diet quality.

    “The improved diet quality among pecan snackers — including a higher percentage of calories from polyunsaturated fats and increased fiber and polyphenols — likely also contributed to the observed cholesterol improvements, particularly the LDL-lowering effects,” Petersen said.

    The researchers said that replacing a person’s usual snacks with pecans each day could improve cholesterol levels and diet quality, especially if they are at risk of metabolic syndrome.

    Tricia Hart, doctoral student in nutritional studies at Penn State, and Penny Kris-Etherton, retired Evan Pugh University Professor of Nutritional Sciences at Penn State, also contributed to this research.

    This study was supported by the Clinical Research Center, a unit in the Penn State Clinical and Translational Science Institute.

    The American Pecan Council funded this study.

  • PKN Launches its Zero Pecan Milk

    PKN, a leading innovator in plant-based beverages and the first company to bring pecan milk to market, announced that it has officially launched PKN Zero. The new PKN Zero offers a simple, delicious, nutritious non-dairy milk with a subtle taste of roasted pecans, reminiscent of pecan pie, with a buttery texture without gums, added sugar, or other additives.

    “Many of our early customers asked for a pecan milk option that brings out the pecan taste and nutrition made with simple ingredients. Research shows that in 2024, more than 25 percent of consumers who choose to buy plant-based milks prefer simple ingredients they understand and can pronounce,” said Laura Shenkar, CEO, founder and inventor of PKN. “Over the past year, we developed new roasting techniques to further bring out the innate, beloved flavor of pecans. We are proud to highlight our new roasting techniques in PKN Zero.  It is a perfect pairing for the morning cereal bowl, an ideal addition to coffee and healthy smoothie, or even a delicious option for that glass of milk before bed.”

    Made from upcycled pecans, PKN Zero pecan milk has only four simple ingredients: Filtered water, pecan butter, vanilla extract, and sea salt. With a satisfying, buttery taste to rival cow’s milk, the new PKN Zero supports brain-health and heart-health with the highest levels of flavonoids and the highest ratio of anti-oxidants of any tree nut. Pecans also provide a healthy dose of ALA Omega-3 fatty acids, which in turn have a favorable impact on total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, and reduce insulin resistance and inflammation. Rich in polyphenols, manganese, mono- and poly-unsaturated fats, monounsaturated fat, and fiber, pecans are naturally low in sugar and sodium, and as a result, all PKN pecan milks – including the PKN Zero – are keto-friendly, gluten-free, vegan, non-GMO, dairy-free, and kosher.

    As concerns about water scarcity gain attention, the pecan nut stands out with the water resiliency of the only commercial tree nut native to America. PKN’s pecan milk products are dedicated to supporting efficient use of water and also eliminating food waste by upcycling imperfect pecan pieces, water-efficient manufacturing, and shelf-stable packaging. By generating a new source of revenue for pecan growers through the imperfect pieces, PKN is supporting growers’ transition to regenerative, organic farming.

    All PKN products, including PKN Zero, are now available on PKN’s website and on shelves at select premium grocers nationwide. For more information on PKN’s line of next-generation sustainable non-dairy milks, please visit: https://pknpecanmilk.com/pages/our-story.

  • Pecan Industry Votes to Continue Research and Promotion Program

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that pecan producers and importers voted to continue the American Pecan Promotion Board’s research and promotion program.

    In the referendum held May 10 through June 10, 2024, 74.89% of pecan producers and importers voted in favor of continuing the program. This meets the requirement that the majority of those voting were in favor of the program continuing.

    The Pecan Promotion, Research, and Information Order, which established the American Pecan Promotion program, requires USDA to conduct an initial referendum no later than three years after assessments are first collected. Subsequent continuance referendum will be conducted every seven years or at the request of 10% or more of all eligible pecan producers and importers.

    More information about the program is on the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) American Pecan Promotion Board webpage and on the American Pecan Promotion Board website.

    The pecan research and promotion program is authorized under the Commodity Promotion, Research and Information Act of 1996. The program was developed to strengthen the position of pecans in the marketplace, maintain and expand markets for pecans and develop new uses for pecans within the United States.

    Since 1966, Congress has authorized the development of industry-funded research and promotion boards to provide a framework for agricultural industries to pool their resources and combine efforts to develop new markets, strengthen existing markets and conduct important research and promotion activities. AMS provides oversight of 22 boards, paid for by industry assessments, which helps ensure fiscal accountability and program integrity.

  • Helping Consumers See There’s More to Pecans than Meets the Pie

    The American Pecan Promotion Board (APPB) has selected Signal Theory as its agency partner for a consumer retail and communications campaign to drive demand and consumption of pecans not just during the holidays, but year-round. The announcement comes just in time for National Pecan Month, an industry-wide celebration held each April to showcase the versatility and nutritional benefits of American pecans.

    Overseen by the USDA, the American Pecan Promotion Board is an agricultural commodity organization consisting of pecan producers and importers. APPB was founded in 2021 to drive demand for pecans in new and existing markets through scientific research, promotional efforts and innovative new uses for pecans.

    “Pecans are well-known for their role in our favorite holiday pies and sweets, but on their own, they’re a nutrient-dense powerhouse with fiber and protein,” said Anne Warden, CEO of APPB. “We’re excited to leverage Signal Theory’s experience in agriculture and food marketing to show consumers pecans not only deliver on flavor, but on nutrition too.”

    Signal Theory, an agency grounded in behavioral science, has successfully worked with brands that span agricultural production to the dining table, including Dairy Farmers of America, National Pork Board, Midwest Dairy Association, Certified Angus Beef and the North American Meat Institute to build stronger connections between commodity organizations and consumers.

    “Food fuels our lives – we wake up thinking about it, socialize around it, feed our thinking with it, and often, say goodnight with a bedtime snack,” said John January, co-CEO of Signal Theory. “We want to make pecans part of people’s everyday grocery carts.”

    Signal Theory will collaborate with APPB to design an integrated creative campaign and launch a strategy to drive awareness and retail sales among consumers while also engaging the tree nut industry advocates.

    About Signal Theory

    Signal Theory is a branding and design firm that creates joy, comfort and meaning through human insights for brands in the food value chain and pet sectors. With Midwestern roots, the firm has clients across the globe including SONIC®, America’s Drive-In; Chili’s® Grill & Bar; John Deere; BOSE; Certified Angus Beef; American Pecan Promotion Board; and International® Truck. Named by Ad Age as an Agency of the Year and Best Places to Work, the firm can be found on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

  • Nutrition is Key to Growing the Pecan Industry

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    APPB & APC Introduce Unified Strategy

    In a move that marks a significant shift in the pecan industry’s approach to marketing, the American Pecan Council (APC) and the American Pecan Promotion Board (APPB) are working together to create a global marketing strategy that’s set to reimagine the pecan’s place in the market and in consumers’ hearts. The Unified Pecan Promotion Plan (UPPP), as this strategy has been aptly named, pivots on four strategic initiatives:

    • Higher Value through Nutrition
    • Expanded Demand Through New Occasions
    • Industry Readiness Through Services Strategy
    • Incremental Volume Through Exports

    According to Anne Warden, CEO, APC and APPB, The UPPP is a blueprint designed to bring pecan industry partners together. “We want to align the entire supply chain – from grower to seller to customer – under a single vision and mission.”

    Spotlight on “Higher Value Through Nutrition”

    While all four strategic initiatives are key to industry-wide growth, the story of pecans as a nutritional powerhouse creates a tremendous untapped marketing opportunity. “Higher Value Through Nutrition” seeks to uplift the pecan’s profile from a tasty snack to a nutritional powerhouse.

    Despite their delicious taste, most consumers are not aware that pecans are also highly nutritious. The UPPP aims to tackle this by shifting the consumer perception to view pecans as an essential, nutritious food, thereby increasing demand and value. This comes on the heels of a survey indicating a strong consumer inclination towards foods that reduce heart disease risk and support cognitive health—areas where pecans naturally excel.

    How exactly does the Unified Pecan Promotion Plan intend to change these perceptions? By focusing on digital content, third-party validators, and nutrition research.

    Educating Consumers with Digital Media

    Instead of the traditional scattergun approach to marketing, the pecan industry is sharpening its aim. Leveraging consumer perception and buying behavior data, the UPPP is gearing up to make pecans a staple in digital shopping carts. Expect to see more targeted, persuasive content online, where most buying decisions are now made.

    Activating Third-Party Validators

    The UPPP recognizes the enormous influence of fitness and lifestyle influencers and plans to collaborate with these key figures to propagate the nutritional messaging of pecans. By partnering with popular health platforms and cultural content creators, the industry intends to integrate pecans into the narrative of a healthy lifestyle.

    Nutrition Research & Industry-wide Messaging Clarity

    Harnessing a wealth of existing research and generating new data will be pivotal to strengthening pecans’ health claims. By syncing the messaging across the entire supply chain, the UPPP is looking to create a clear, consistent and powerful chorus singing the nutritional praises of pecans.

    Just the beginning

    These initiatives, though ambitious, are only the starting line. The APC and APPB are preparing to launch promotions that position pecans uniquely in the nut market. This will not only distinguish them for their natural nutrition and superior taste but also establish a strong foundation for long-term strategic partnerships.

    As the UPPP unfolds, the goal is to create a future where pecans are not just another nut in the bowl, but a prized ingredient in the health-conscious consumer’s diet. For pecan growers, this could mean a significant uplift in the value of their crops, aligning with evolving consumer trends that prioritize health and wellness.

    The APC and APPB are setting the stage for a pecan renaissance, one that promises to elevate America’s only native nut to new heights of consumer awareness and appreciation. Through the work of the UPPP and its focus on nutrition, the pecan industry is ready to crack the market wide open, so to speak.