Pecan Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

Pecan Market Analysis

The Pecan Market size is estimated at USD 0.94 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 1.23 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 5.60% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The global pecan industry is experiencing significant transformations in production and supply chain dynamics, with the United States and Mexico emerging as dominant producers, accounting for more than 45% of global production. The industry has been particularly affected by climate-related challenges, as evidenced in 2023 when severe weather conditions, including strong winds and insufficient rainfall, led to substantial crop losses in major producing regions. In Georgia and Texas alone, approximately 60-65 million pounds of pecan fruit were lost due to adverse weather conditions, highlighting the vulnerability of production to environmental factors and the need for more resilient agricultural practices.

The industry is witnessing substantial expansion in emerging markets, particularly in China, where strategic agricultural initiatives have led to significant growth in production capacity. As of 2023, China's total pecan acreage reached 85,000 hectares, marking a 6% increase since 2021. This expansion is reshaping global supply dynamics and creating new opportunities for market development, while also introducing new competitive pressures in the international trade landscape. The Chinese market's evolution is particularly noteworthy, with a 6.3% increase in per capita disposable income in 2023 driving greater consumption of premium food products, including pecans.

International trade patterns are evolving rapidly, with new trade relationships and market access agreements shaping the flow of pecan products globally. The industry is seeing increased sophistication in processing and value-addition capabilities, with manufacturers developing innovative pecan-based products to meet diverse consumer preferences. This trend is particularly evident in the emergence of new product launches, such as Aloha's introduction of a limited-edition Chocolate Caramel Pecan protein bar in 2023, demonstrating the industry's ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences.

The market is experiencing a significant shift in production techniques and quality standards, with an increased focus on sustainable farming practices and technological integration. Producers are investing in advanced irrigation systems, pest management solutions, and harvesting technologies to improve yield quality and consistency. This technological evolution is particularly important given the industry's challenges with weather-related disruptions and the need to maintain stable supply chains. The industry is also seeing greater emphasis on traceability and quality certification systems, responding to growing consumer demand for transparency in food production and sourcing.

Pecan Market Trends

Health and Dietary Benefits Associated with Pecan Consumption

The increasing health consciousness and consumption of plant-based proteins have become significant drivers for the pecan market globally. Pecan nuts are becoming one of the most popular plant-based proteins consumed to maintain a healthy diet, as they provide a rich source of vitamin C, niacin, vitamin B-6, and essential minerals including calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc. The rising consumer attraction toward healthy eating trends with new flavors is propelling the market for pecans, as these nuts offer various health benefits such as digestion improvement and benefits concerning immunity. Additionally, pecans are known for their anti-inflammatory benefits due to their magnesium presence, which helps prevent skin problems, shows anti-aging benefits, and stimulates hair growth.

The growing allergies and intolerance to certain ingredients such as lactose, gluten, and others are promoting the use of pecan nuts among young individuals and athletes for fulfilling their nutritional needs. Consumer interest in improving protein intake is cumulative, with more attention being paid to certain types of plant-based protein being consumed. Health-conscious consumers are increasingly looking to balance elements of health and wellness, which is impacting their food and beverage choices. For instance, according to the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council, in 2023, pecans have gained significant popularity among consumers due to their high magnesium content, a mineral that has become more popular due to the growing trend of electrolyte supplementation.

Convenient Supply of the Pecan

Supply of pecans remains smooth and timely in parallel with consumer demand, creating a strong driver for market growth. Farmers can sell the produced pecans straight to consumers through farmers' markets and online websites for retail prices or to accumulators, wholesalers, and shellers for wholesale prices, demonstrating the flexibility in supply for increased demand. The cross-border supply chain remains effectively functional, leading to easy availability and supply of bulk pecans for various high-demand countries such as China. The United States, the top producer of pecans around the globe, is continuously supporting the smooth supply of pecans not only in the region but also worldwide.

The required supply of pecans from the major supplying countries remains satisfactory, therefore motivating people to rely on pecan consumption and increasing the demand in global markets. For instance, according to the Position Report issued by the American Pecan Council in March 2023, America supplied sixty percent of its 41,617 metric tons of pecan exports to China during January 2023, thereby maintaining the proper supply of pecans to the demand location. Due to a good supply of pecans, they have become popular even in non-producing countries, as they had an on-demand supply at the time needed.

Versatile Use of the Pecan

Pecan nuts, being highly nutritious and possessing multiple health benefits, have diverse applications across various industries, driving market growth. The pecan can be used in various forms and as food items, with multiple new uses being developed in recent years. Pecan nuts are used in various food products in multiple cuisines across the globe, and the use of pecans in multiple food products is increasing in health-conscious consumer segments. This is motivating various food companies to launch new pecan-based products in the market. For instance, in 2023, Aloha launched a limited-edition Chocolate Caramel Pecan protein bar flavor, while in 2024, the pecan company introduced two new flavors of pecan milk targeting the growing plant-based beverage market.

The use of pecan is also expanding in the skin and hair care industry, where pecan and pecan oil are commonly used in cosmetics like perfumes, lotions, and soaps that address conditions like dry and flaky skin. Pecan oil is very common in facial oils to help tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Additionally, pecan extract and oils are used to reduce hair loss problems in young adults. Due to this versatility, several global and local beauty brands are exploring pecan for use in their products. For instance, in 2022, during an interview, a Canadian beauty brand, Nuez Acres, discussed its intention of using pecan oils in its small batch of self-care products during the coming years.

Pecan Market Geography Segment Analysis

Pecan Market in the United States

The United States dominates the global pecan market, commanding approximately 65% of the total market value in 2024. The country's leadership position is underpinned by its extensive pecan cultivation across multiple states, with Georgia and Texas emerging as the primary growing regions. The country's success in pecan production by state is attributed to its ideal growing conditions, advanced farming techniques, and well-established infrastructure for processing and distribution. The domestic market is characterized by a robust network of pecan farmers, processors, and distributors who maintain stringent quality standards throughout the supply chain. The United States has also developed a sophisticated processing industry that transforms raw pecans into various value-added products, including pecan milk, butter, and other innovative food items. The country's strong research and development initiatives continue to drive improvements in pecan varieties and cultivation techniques, ensuring sustained market leadership.

Pecan Market in South Africa

South Africa has emerged as the fastest-growing pecan market globally, with a projected growth rate of approximately 7% during 2024-2029. The country's pecan industry is experiencing rapid transformation, particularly in the Northern Cape province, which has become a hub for pecan cultivation. South African farmers are increasingly adopting modern agricultural practices and investing in advanced irrigation systems to optimize yields. The country's pecan industry benefits from favorable climatic conditions and rich soil composition, which contribute to producing high-quality nuts that meet international standards. Local agricultural institutions are actively supporting farmers through research programs and technical assistance, helping them implement sustainable farming practices. The industry's growth is further supported by strong export relationships, particularly with Asian markets, where South African pecans are highly valued for their quality. The government's supportive policies and infrastructure development initiatives are creating an enabling environment for continued industry expansion.

Pecan Market in Germany

Germany has established itself as a crucial European hub for the pecan market, despite not being a producer country. The German market is characterized by sophisticated processing facilities that transform imported pecans into various value-added products, catering to both domestic and European consumers. The country's strong food processing industry has been instrumental in developing innovative pecan-based products, particularly in the confectionery and bakery sectors. German consumers' increasing preference for healthy snacking options and plant-based foods has created a robust demand for pecans in the retail sector. The market is supported by well-developed logistics infrastructure and strategic trade relationships with major pecan-producing countries. German retailers and food manufacturers maintain high quality standards and sustainable sourcing practices, which has helped establish the country as a trusted pecan market in Europe.

Pecan Market in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has positioned itself as a significant player in the global pecan market, leveraging its strategic location and advanced port facilities to serve as a major trading hub. The Dutch market is characterized by its sophisticated processing capabilities and strong focus on value-added pecan products. The country's food industry has been particularly innovative in incorporating pecans into various food applications, from traditional confectionery to modern plant-based alternatives. Dutch companies have established strong relationships with both suppliers and customers across Europe, facilitating efficient distribution networks. The market benefits from advanced quality control systems and sustainable practices, which align with increasing consumer demand for responsibly sourced products. The Netherlands' strong focus on food innovation and research continues to drive new applications for pecans in various food sectors.

Pecan Market in Other Countries

The pecan market extends beyond the major players to include several other significant countries, each contributing to the global market's diversity and growth. Countries like Mexico, China, and Australia have developed distinct market characteristics based on their local consumption patterns and trade relationships. Japan and France have emerged as important markets with growing consumer interest in healthy snacking options and premium food products. Israel, Brazil, and Argentina have also shown increasing participation in the global pecan trade, with each country developing specialized market segments. These markets are characterized by varying levels of consumption, processing capabilities, and trade activities, contributing to the overall dynamism of the global pecan industry. The development of new applications and increasing health consciousness across these markets continues to drive innovation and market expansion.