The subtropical climate and fertile landscape create favorable agricultural conditions, and the KZN South Coast is listed as one of the country's leading macadamia nut producing regions. Local producers have doubled their production over the past four years, paving the way for exciting opportunities for investors looking to take advantage of this growing global demand.
South Africa is one of the world's leading macadamia nut producers, with Mpumalanga topping the trading list, while KwaZulu-Natal will receive more than R50 million in the 2023 marketing year, according to the KwaZulu-Natal Trade and Investment Authority. The country boasted a positive macadamia nut trade balance. . Many farmers are now investing in macadamia nuts because of the potential for large profits.
In particular, the KZN South Coast has established itself as a leading producer of premium macadamia nuts, with well-known exporters such as Mayo Mac, Mac Eden and Coastal Macadamia at the forefront of this high-quality production.
Kobus Venter, chief operating officer of Mayo Mac, a South African macadamia processing, marketing and distribution company, said: “Mayo Mac has doubled its production in the past four years and based on current intake, It is expected to double again in four years.” “The KZN South Coast remains one of the fastest growing macadamia regions in the world.”
Mayo Max has two state-of-the-art macadamia processing facilities near Nelspruit in Mpumalanga and Paddock on the KZN South Coast, with receiving warehouses in Empangeni, George and Levuvu. Mayo Mac is wholly owned by the shareholders of producers who supply the highest quality macadamia nuts.
Mr Venter explained that macadamia is a long-term crop, which provides no income for the first few years and requires additional processing capacity as supply increases. Nevertheless, South Africa's industry is mature and there are many opportunities to add value from the farm level to the bottom line.
“The majority of the crop is exported in shelled nuts to the Chinese market, while the grain is exported to the US and European markets, with new markets being opened every year,” he continued. “We are seeing an increasing demand for macadamia shells as different projects are looking at different uses for macadamia shells.”
Outside of the Asian market, most of the macadamia nuts produced in South Africa are exported to Europe and America. Trade and Investment KZN is expected to see a steady increase in demand in China, mainly due to rising middle class incomes and increased spending on convenient and nutritious food, and there is still plenty of room to exploit. He pointed out that there is.
Job creation exists throughout the macadamia nut production chain, from cultivation to manual sorting, shell removal, drying in a shed system, cracking, sorting, sorting and packaging.
South Coast Tourism Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) CEO Dr. Vusumuzi Sibiya said macadamia is not only used as a healthy snack but also incorporated into sweets, baked goods, desserts and other recipes. He said that investment opportunities are opening up. this field.
“The KZN South Coast, which boasts great agricultural opportunities such as sugar, bananas and coffee, is also a major global player in the macadamia farming industry and the figures show significant growth potential in this industry,” said Dr Sibiya. Ta. “We will continue to look for ways to support our investors as international market demand increases for the high-quality products grown here.”
Siele Nkam, CEO of Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal, added: “As Trade and Invest KwaZulu-Natal, we are proud that KwaZulu-Natal, and in particular the KZN South Coast, plays a pivotal role in South Africa's position as the world's leading macadamia exporter.” But it is equally important to go beyond exporting raw materials and focus on local agro-processing. To achieve this objective, our export division has been collaborating with local entrepreneurs who produce macadamia-based products such as oils, nut butters and packaged nuts. We provide training that meets international standards and prepares you for the global market.
“Through initiatives such as participation in international trade fairs, we are building a platform for these entrepreneurs to showcase their products, establish networks and secure new markets. It not only promotes preparedness, but also economic growth and job creation in the state.”
Uses of macadamia nuts
Macadamia can be incorporated into cereals, snack bars, candies, cakes, cookies, spreads, savory crusts, pesto, and more. Macadamia nuts are perfect for plant-based, vegetarian, and vegan diets. Macadamia nuts can be used as an ingredient in a variety of dairy alternatives, including macadamia milk, cream, cheese, dips, sauces, and ice cream. Due to their low carbohydrate content, macadamia nuts are suitable for the keto diet and are used in keto-friendly breads, cereals, and other baking options. Macadamia oil is perfect for roasting, baking, grilling, and frying. Macadamia oil can be used as a base for salad dressings, marinades, and sauces, or as a substitute for butter in baking.
*Source: Trade and Investment KZN: Macadamia Trade Fact Sheet
A quick guide to macadamia nuts
Macadamia nut trees are native to Australia. Macadamia nut trees require a warm subtropical climate and regular watering. Macadamia trees take 7 to 10 years to mature. Macadamia nuts have the hardest outer shell of all nuts. Macadamia nuts come in a variety of colors, from cream to green to brown. Macadamia nuts are rich in various nutrients. This is important because macadamia oil has a high smoke point (210°C to 234°C), the temperature at which it smokes and gives food an unpleasant bitter taste.
*Source: Trade and Investment KZN: Macadamia Trade Fact Sheet
Now is the time to invest in KZN South Coast!
KZN South Coast is well placed to leverage the investment potential through the Eastern Seaboard Development Initiative, with existing investor support provided by the Port Shepstone Business Hub and KZN South Coast’s one-stop shop. The KZN South Coast continues to offer unparalleled investment opportunities across a wide range of sectors including:
Agriculture Real Estate Development Manufacturing Mining and Mineral Processing Maritime | Marine Economy Logistics Renewable Energy Hinterland
SCTIE investment details
If you would like to find out more about these investment opportunities, please contact SCTIE, KZN South Coast's investment one-stop shop. Contact SCTIE on 039 682 7944, email oss@sctie.co.za or visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za.
Follow the South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise – SCTIE page on Facebook to keep up to date with the latest news from KZN South Coast. South Coast Tourism Investment Company on YouTube. as well as @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. Find out why KZN South Coast is a top investment destination here. Check out the latest southern exploration route guide for the KZN south coast here.
Follow the hashtags #uncover #uncoverkznsouthcoast #uncoverpotential #kznsouthcoast. Click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases.
To purchase sales items or secure services from Buy Local businesses, visit the online directory of the SCTIE website. To order from a Buy Local member or take part in the campaign, visit the Buy Local tag at www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or click here to obtain a membership form.
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