Hazelnut Exports Surge: Georgia Gains in EU Markets as Prices Hold Steady

Georgia’s hazelnut sector has reported a remarkable upturn in both export volumes and values, further strengthening the country’s reputation as a key supplier to the European Union. In February alone, hazelnut exports reached 1,700 tons, generating US$19.3 million in revenue—a 33% increase in volume and a 2.2-fold surge in export value compared to the same period last year. This robust growth signals strengthened demand, competitive quality, and advantageous trade ties. With EU countries such as Italy, Spain, Germany, France, and Greece at the heart of Georgia’s export strategy, the nation’s hazelnut industry appears poised for continued expansion. The additional diversification into markets like Syria, Armenia, and Russia underscores both the sector’s resilience and the broad-based appeal of Georgian hazelnuts. As product prices remain stable in European destinations, stakeholders should monitor evolving trends, especially with the spring shipping window and anticipated EU food industry demand. Current market prices, supplemented by Turkish offers, reveal a competitive but steady European price environment. While Georgian exports flourish, the interplay between crop size, quality, and geopolitical influences will drive sentiment over the coming quarter.

📈 Prices

Product	Origin	Location	Type	Delivery	Price (EUR/kg)	Prev. Price (EUR/kg)	Update	Market Sentiment
Hazelnut kernels GE	Georgia	Warschau, PL	Natural 11-13mm	FCA	11.65	11.65	2026-03-09	Stable
Hazelnut kernels	Georgia	Warschau, PL	Hazelnut kernels 15+	FCA	12.15	12.15	2026-03-09	Stable
Hazelnut kernels	Georgia	Warschau, PL	Natural, 13-15mm	FCA	11.95	11.95	2026-03-09	Stable
Hazelnut kernels	Turkey	Istanbul, TR	Natural, 13-15mm	FOB	10.49	10.42	2026-03-02	Slightly firmer
Hazelnut kernels	Turkey	Istanbul, TR	Natural 11-13mm	FOB	9.90	9.84	2026-03-02	Slightly firmer
Hazelnut kernels	Turkey	Istanbul, TR	Roasted, meal	FOB	8.15	8.65	2026-03-02	Softer
Hazelnut kernels	Turkey	Istanbul, TR	Roasted, diced, 2-4mm	FOB	9.15	9.65	2026-03-02	Softer

🌍 Supply & Demand

• Georgia: Exported 1,700 tons of hazelnuts in February 2026, totaling US$19.3m. Compared to last year: +33% by volume, +120% by value.
• Main destinations: European Union (notably Italy, Spain, Germany, France, Greece).
• EU season data: From August 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026, a total of 9,900 tons shipped to the EU.
• Other key destinations: Syria (944 t), Armenia (511 t), Russia (473 t).
• Demand drivers: EU confectionery and processed food sectors, stable to firm demand outlook.

📊 Fundamentals

• Rising shipments: Export volumes and values up sharply year-on-year, reflecting strong commercial ties and expanded access to both EU and alternative markets.
• Market concentration: The EU remains the largest and most lucrative market; diversification is growing but remains secondary.
• Competitive pricing: Georgian hazelnut prices remain slightly above Turkish pricing, supported by quality perceptions and logistic proximity to EU markets.
• Trade balance: Positive for Georgia due to the doubling of export value, with EU buyers showing strong preference.

🌦️ Weather & Crop Outlook

• Georgia: Favorable winter and early spring weather conditions have supported crop health and logistics, promoting robust supply.
• Turkey: No significant adverse events reported recently; normal conditions maintain steady Turkish supply.
• Potential risks: Late spring frosts in Black Sea region can pose yield risk; as of now, outlook is stable.

🌐 Global Stocks & Production

Country	Recent Export (tons)	Key Markets
Georgia	1,700 (Feb), 9,900 (Aug-Feb EU)	EU, Syria, Armenia, Russia
Turkey	Data not reported	EU, Middle East, Global
Other	Minimal share	Regional

📌 Trading Outlook

• Buyers: Secure contracts ahead of peak spring demand; EU buyers should act promptly due to robust import pull.
• Sellers (Georgia): Capitalize on pricing stability and value gains; maintain premium position in quality-conscious EU markets.
• Sellers (Turkey): Consider strategic pricing as Georgian shipments capture EU market share.
• Watch factors: Monitor late-spring weather risks, EU demand signals, and competitor pricing for directional cues.

📆 3-Day Price Forecast (EUR/kg, FCA/FOB)

Origin	Product	Today	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3
Georgia	Natural 11-13mm	11.65	11.65	11.65	11.60 – slight downside risk if demand pauses
Georgia	Hazelnut kernels 15+	12.15	12.15	12.15	12.10 – stable with possible minor softening
Turkey	Natural 13-15mm	10.49	10.52	10.55	10.55 – slightly firmer if Turkish demand picks up