Fort Worth, TX – In an effort to grow the pecan industry’s global relationships and increase exports, the American Pecan Council (APC) conducted its first reverse trade mission with Indian nut importers in key growing regions. The mission provided importers an up-close, educational look at the U.S. pecan industry and how the full value chain can offer a high-value, nutritious product for Indian consumers.
“We’re excited to open up our farms and doors to these importers from India,” said Larry Don Womack, APC Chair. “Our industry believes this isn’t just an opportunity to grow demand for U.S. pecans overseas but can also build our industry’s standing in the global agricultural sector and grow economic opportunities here and internationally.”
The first stop on the three-state tour included Atlanta and Fort Valley, Georgia, where importers participated in a welcome reception hosted by the Consulate General of India, Atlanta. They learned more about the history and proper handling of U.S. pecans, visited an orchard and met many of Georgia’s pecan growers and suppliers. Activities were co-hosted by APC and the Georgia Pecan Growers Association.
Importance of Pecans and International Exports
Driving export opportunities is a significant area of focus for APC. India presents an opportunity to reach a growing, heavily vegetarian country where general awareness about pecans is low, but interest in nuts, particularly U.S. nuts are high.
“India’s population is projected to reach 1.5 billion by the end of this decade, and with the recent tariff reduction, it’s a critical moment for U.S. pecans to secure a foothold there,” says Anne Warden, CEO of the American Pecan Council. “We think educational opportunities like these can catalyze one of the world’s youngest and fastest growing markets to choose the health benefits and taste of pecans and bring our industry both short- and long-term sales.”
In addition to hosting importers in the U.S. to learn about the entire pecan industry, APC is also focusing international promotion efforts in-country in India, China, Germany and the U.K. with a series of retail partnerships (online and in-store), trade shows, influencers and social media aimed at growing awareness of U.S. Pecans as a good for you and tasty snack option.
About the American Pecan Council
About the American Pecan Council
The American Pecan Council (APC) is a group of passionate pecan growers and shellers whose life work is dedicated to growing, harvesting and processing America’s native nut. Founded in 2016 through a Federal Marketing Order, the APC’s mission is to promote the many benefits of the American Pecan and help tell the story of this truly unique nut. With oversight by the USDA, APC aims to build consumer demand, develop markets and establish industry standards.
APC is based in Fort Worth, Texas, and funded by pecan handlers in 15 pecan-producing states: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Texas. To learn more visit www.AmericanPecan.com.