Hazelnut Prices Soar on Tunisian Markets
Hazelnut prices have experienced a spectacular surge on Tunisian markets, with an estimated increase of between 40% and 50%. The price of whole hazelnuts per kilogram has risen from 40 to 60 dinars, while shelled hazelnuts now cost 65 dinars, and up to 75 dinars in some specialized stores. This surge is expected to impact the cost of many derived products, such as "zrir", pastries, and chocolate spread, whose prices could rise sharply in the coming weeks.
Increase Driven by Turkish Crisis
This price increase is directly related to the decline in production in Turkey, the world's largest hazelnut producer, which accounts for nearly 70% of global supply. The 2025 campaign is expected to be particularly challenging, with Turkish officials estimating that production will drop to around 600,000 tons, compared to an average annual production of 700,000 to 800,000 tons in normal times. This contraction in global supply has led to increased tension on international markets, affecting Tunisian imports.
Exceptional Frost Hits Black Sea Region
In April, an exceptional wave of frost hit the hazelnut-producing regions of the Black Sea basin. Temperatures dropped below -10°C, causing significant damage to hazelnut flowers. In some areas, such as Ordu and Giresun, crop losses exceeded 70%, leading to a lasting imbalance between supply and demand. To support affected producers, the Turkish government raised the official purchase price of hazelnuts by over 50%. While this measure aims to compensate for agricultural losses and stabilize the sector, it has also contributed to increased pressure on global prices, directly impacting importing markets, including Tunisia.
Prolonged Price Increase Expected
In the face of this surge, Tunisian professionals anticipate a prolonged increase in the prices of products containing hazelnuts. Some pastry artisans are already considering adjusting their prices, while importers hope for an improvement in Turkish production in 2026, which could ease market tensions.
