Almond Brief: March 2026 Almond Position Report – Market Recovery & Demand Surge

The March 2026 Almond Position Report signals a strong rebound in the California almond market. In this episode of The Almond Brief Podcast by Harris Woolf Almonds, the team highlights a sharp increase in demand, stronger-than-expected shipments, and growing confidence across the industry as the 2025 crop cycle nears its close.

After a slower start to the season, the latest data shows the market gaining momentum, driven largely by consistent buying activity and improving price support.

Almond Market Recovery Gains Momentum in March 2026

The March report reflects a clear shift in market conditions. While crop receipts remained steady, both sales and shipments significantly outperformed expectations.

This surge has helped narrow the gap between current performance and last year’s year-to-date totals, signaling that the industry is catching up after earlier slowdowns.

Overall, the March Position Report points to a market regaining strength and stability, with positive momentum building as the industry heads into its next cycle.

The result is a healthier, more active market with stronger participation from both buyers and sellers.

Almond Shipments and Sales Exceed Expectations

One of the most encouraging takeaways from the March Position Report is the strength of monthly shipments and new sales.

Key highlights include:

• Shipments surpassed forecasted levels
• New sales activity increased significantly
• Year-to-date comparisons improved

This level of activity indicates that global demand remains strong, even late in the crop cycle.

Hand-to-Mouth Buying Driving Almond Demand

A major factor behind the recent demand surge is the continued trend of hand-to-mouth purchasing.

Instead of committing to large forward contracts, buyers are:

• Purchasing smaller quantities more frequently
• Covering immediate needs rather than speculating
• Re-entering the market regularly

While this behavior can create short-term volatility, it ultimately supports consistent market activity and keeps product moving steadily.

Almond Prices Strengthen as Buyer Confidence Returns

With increased demand and stronger sales performance, almond prices have seen a modest uptick.

This price movement reflects:

• Improved buyer confidence
• A more balanced supply-demand environment
• Reduced uncertainty as the crop cycle winds down

Although the increase is gradual, it signals a positive direction for the market heading into the next phase of the year.

End of 2025 Crop Cycle Brings Focus to What’s Next

As the industry approaches the end of the 2025 almond crop cycle, attention is beginning to shift toward upcoming developments that could shape the next market phase.

One of the most anticipated moments will come in May, when:

• New industry estimates are released
• A major international almond conference takes place
• Market sentiment is reassessed based on fresh data

These events are expected to play a key role in setting expectations for pricing, supply, and demand moving forward.