California, September 15, 2025
News Summary
California’s almond industry faces significant challenges as expanded tariffs from the Trump administration threaten their economic stability. With California producing 80% of the world’s almonds, these new trade measures could result in substantial financial losses. The California Almond Alliance is voicing concerns over these tariffs, especially after previous retaliatory tariffs caused hundreds of millions in losses. Farmers are now worried about future profits and competition from countries like Australia, as they strategize to adapt to rapidly changing trade conditions.
California is facing significant economic uncertainty as almond growers brace for the impacts of expanded tariffs announced by the Trump administration. The state’s agriculture sector, which represents a crucial part of the economy, is particularly vulnerable due to California being the largest producer of almonds globally, contributing 80% of the world’s supply and the majority of its exports.
Almonds are not just an agricultural product; they are the most valuable food export for California, accounting for approximately 20% of the state’s $23.6 billion agricultural sales abroad. The new tariffs further complicate an already precarious situation for growers who sell a substantial portion of their crop internationally, making them dependent on favorable trade conditions.
Recent developments include the California Almond Alliance’s outreach to federal officials, including Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. The alliance has expressed serious concerns regarding the potential fallout from retaliatory tariffs and their capacity to diminish American profits and market share in international markets.
Historically, the almond industry has faced challenges due to previous tariff impositions. During Trump’s first term, California almonds were hit with a staggering 55% retaliatory tariff from China, leading to losses in the hundreds of millions of dollars for growers. With new tariffs looming, farmers are increasingly worried about their financial stability and are calling for government bailouts should retaliatory tariffs become a reality.
Additionally, California nut farmers that successfully navigated last year’s almond crop—selling it at favorable prices after recovering from a market oversupply—are now expecting a larger harvest this season. Nevertheless, uncertainties arising from tariffs threaten to impact their future profitability.
The Trump administration has broadened tariff measures, resulting in a universal 10% tariff on imported goods and steeper rates for specific countries, including a 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico. Research from UC Davis warns that these retaliatory tariffs could cost California farmers between hundreds of millions and potentially billions of dollars, surpassing previous losses triggered by the 2021 drought.
Heightened competition is emerging from countries like Australia, which may capitalize on the tariff situation, increasing their market share while California almond growers to struggle with export limitations. Farmers are particularly concerned about key markets like China, the European Union, and India, where tariffs could heavily influence demand for their products.
As California prepares for new harvests, growers face considerable challenges in planning and investment due to the uncertainty surrounding trade policies and tariffs. Although there remains a sense of optimism regarding Trump’s promises related to water delivery, the broader implications of his trade measures have many almond growers on edge.
In response to the complex scenario, California’s almond industry has shifted export strategies away from a reliance on China, looking to broaden its market base. However, the fundamental question remains: what will be the fate of harvests if tariffs disrupt exports further?
Summary of Key Points:
- California produces 80% of the world’s almonds, vital to its agricultural economy.
- Almonds make up about 20% of California’s agricultural exports.
- Retaliatory tariffs have previously cost the almond industry hundreds of millions.
- Almond growers are concerned about future profits and market stability.
- Research indicates future tariffs could lead to billions in losses for farmers.
- Competition from countries like Australia is increasing due to the tariffs.
FAQs
What percentage of the world’s almonds are produced in California?
California produces approximately 80% of the world’s almonds.
What are the main concerns of California almond growers regarding recent tariffs?
California almond growers are concerned about the impact of retaliatory tariffs on profits and market share, especially with significant losses experienced during Trump’s first term.
How much could retaliatory tariffs cost California farmers?
Research from UC Davis suggests retaliatory tariffs could cost California farmers anywhere from hundreds of millions to billions of dollars.
Chart: Key Features of California Almond Industry
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Production | 80% of the world’s almonds |
| Economic Impact | 20% of California’s agricultural sales abroad |
| Tariff Impact | Past losses: hundreds of millions; future losses: hundreds of millions to billions |
| Market Competition | Increasing from countries like Australia |
| Key Export Markets | China, European Union, India |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Politico: Liberation Day Comes for California Almonds
- Wikipedia: Almond
- LAist: Trump’s Liberation Day Tariffs
- Google Search: California almonds tariffs
- AP News: California Almonds and Tariffs
- Google Scholar: California almond industry
- CBS News: Stanislaus County Almond Farmer Reacts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Almond
- Fox Business: Gavin Newsom on Tariff Retaliation
- Google News: California almond tariffs
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
