Despite challenges caused by hazelnut orchard droughts in western Georgia, the country’s hazelnut sector is experiencing a positive dynamic in both yield and export prices this year.
According to the Hazelnut Producers Association, global supply shortages have driven up international prices. Turkey, which accounts for a significant share of global hazelnut production, lost about 40% of its orchards to bacterial disease. Yields in Italy, another key producer, have also dropped due to similar problems.
This shortage has pushed prices upward. “If last year the sales price of hazelnuts in Europe was around EUR 7, this year prices range between EUR 10–10.5 per kilo,” said Merab Chitanava, Chairman of the Association’s Executive Board.
On the Georgian market, hazelnuts are also trading higher: quality hazelnuts now cost 7–8 GEL, which is 1.5–2 GEL more than last year.
Although, more than 7,000 hectares of orchards have been affected, particularly European hazelnut varieties, with bacterial disease identified as the main cause, Georgia is seeing a 5% increase in yields compared to last year. Combined with the sharp rise in prices, this year is shaping up to be very profitable for farmers and exporters.
“Both the quantity and price of the harvest make this a successful season. Global demand is high, and Georgia is well-positioned to benefit,” Chitanava emphasized.
Georgian hazelnut exports are expected to increase further once the harvest is fully completed. However, data from the first seven months of 2025 already show significant growth in export volumes.
