California, September 15, 2025
News Summary
California almond growers are grappling with the impact of expanded tariffs under the Trump administration. As the state produces 80% of the world’s almonds, these tariffs could threaten profits and market share. Growers fear significant losses due to retaliatory tariffs, particularly from China, and are urging government assistance. Despite previous successes in selling crops, they face an uncertain future with the potential for increased competition and shifting export markets increasingly under threat.
California almond growers are facing significant uncertainty as the Trump administration expands tariffs on imported goods. With California accounting for approximately 80% of the world’s almond production, the agricultural community is bracing for adverse effects on profits and market share, primarily when critical exports are influenced by retaliatory tariffs.
The California almond industry is vital to the state’s agricultural economy, representing roughly 20% of its $23.6 billion agricultural sales abroad. Almonds are the state’s most valuable food export and constitute around 2.5% of California’s total exports. The California Almond Alliance has raised concerns with key government officials about the negative impact of these tariffs on growers.
During the Trump administration’s first term, a 55% retaliatory tariff on California almonds from China inflicted substantial losses on the industry, costing hundreds of millions of dollars. In response to the looming threat of additional tariffs, almond growers are urging for government bailouts in the event that export markets severely contract.
In recent months, almond farmers successfully sold last year’s crop at favorable prices following a recovery from a prior market glut. However, they anticipate a larger harvest this year, leading to worries about the potential erosion of profit margins due to tariffs. Currently, Trump has announced a universal 10% tariff on imported goods, alongside much higher rates on specific nations—most notably, a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico.
Research from UC Davis has indicated that retaliatory tariffs could inflict losses on California farmers that range from hundreds of millions to billions of dollars, potentially surpassing the economic fallout experienced during the 2021 drought. The almond industry is particularly vulnerable, as heightened competition from countries like Australia may leverage increased U.S. tariffs to capture market share that California growers rely on heavily.
With export opportunities to important markets such as China, the European Union, and India increasingly at risk, almond growers are left uncertain about the future of their harvests. Many are grappling with the implications of these tariffs on their business strategies, complicating planning and investments. Since initial tariffs were imposed, California almond growers have shifted their export strategies, concentrating more efforts on markets other than China, where trade complexities have hindered growth.
Despite these challenges, almond growers in California continue to express cautious optimism regarding the Trump administration’s water delivery promises, which are crucial for agricultural productivity. However, they remain acutely aware of the broader economic implications of trade policies that are influencing market conditions and ultimately the viability of their crops.
Background on the Almond Industry
The almond sector is integral to California’s agricultural landscape. California’s almond growers produce the bulk of the world’s supply, with the agricultural community working diligently to advocate for favorable federal policies. Past events, such as the tariffs initiated during Trump’s administration, have already reshaped export markets, leading to a reassessment of growth strategies for almond growers.
The ongoing uncertainty related to tariffs and international trade continues to challenge California’s almond growers, highlighting an industry at a crossroads. As they prepare for upcoming harvests, the implications of trade policies bear heavily on future success and sustainability.
FAQ
What percentage of the world’s almonds are produced in California?
California produces approximately 80% of the world’s almonds.
What are the potential economic impacts of the expanded tariffs on California almond growers?
The expanded tariffs could cost California farmers hundreds of millions to billions of dollars, reducing profits and market share.
What actions have California almond growers taken to address the tariff situation?
California almond growers have communicated concerns to government officials, seeking assistance such as bailouts if tariffs adversely affect their industry.
Key Features of California’s Almond Industry and Tariffs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Global Production | 80% of the world’s almonds produced in California |
| Economic Contribution | 20% of California’s agricultural sales abroad |
| Impact of Tariffs | Potential losses from hundreds of millions to billions of dollars |
| Current Tariffs | 10% universal tariff; 25% targeted tariffs on Canada and Mexico |
| Competition | Increased competition from countries like Australia |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Politico: Liberation Day Comes for California Almonds
- Wikipedia: Almond
- AP News: California Almonds and Tariffs
- Google Search: California almond tariffs
- ABC10: California Almond Industry and Tariffs
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Almond
- SF Chronicle: Trump Tariffs and Almond Prices
- Google News: California almonds
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles 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 Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
