We focus on grains and food industry.
We focus on grains and food industry.
We focus on grains and food industry.
We focus on grains and food industry.
We focus on grains and food industry.
We focus on grains and food industry.
We focus on grains and food industry.
We focus on grains and food industry. current time
South Korea’s Pistachio Demand Slumps After Early-Year Surge
South Korea’s pistachio market has undergone a sharp reversal after a strong burst of demand late last year. Imports of the nut, which rose rapidly during the first months of the year, have now fallen by more than 90% from their peak, pointing to a steep cooling in consumer demand.
Customs data show that pistachio imports climbed from 372 tonnes in December to 594 tonnes in January before reaching a high of 731 tonnes in February. By last month, however, volumes had dropped to just 54 tonnes, representing a 92.6% decline from the February peak.
The fall in import value has been equally striking. Purchases from overseas were valued at $6.24 million in December and surged to $15.47 million in February. By last month, the figure had fallen to only $990,000, a decline of 93.6% from the peak.
Import inspection activity also reflects the weakening momentum. The number of pistachio consignments undergoing food safety inspections fell from 95 in February to just seven by June, a drop of 92.6%.
The decline coincides with a broader easing in commercial interest surrounding pistachio-based food products. Trademark applications containing terms associated with pistachio and related ingredients fell sharply from 23 in January to just one a month between April and June. The near-disappearance of new filings suggests that businesses are becoming more cautious about expanding into a market driven by rapidly changing consumer preferences.
Pistachios had experienced an exceptional demand spike earlier in the year, prompting cafés, retailers and food businesses to increase purchases of imported supplies. Tight availability and strong retail demand encouraged businesses to build inventories and expand product offerings.
That momentum, however, proved short-lived. As major retailers and convenience stores widened their product ranges, supply became more readily available and the initial rush faded.
The sharp correction highlights the risks of building inventories around short-term food trends. For importers and businesses dependent on overseas pistachio supplies, the latest figures underline the importance of matching procurement and investment with sustainable demand rather than temporary market excitement.
