The South African pecans is about to enter the harvest season, and the actual output may be higher than originally expected. Most farmers say the previous estimate of 19,000 ton output may be low, with some even predicting an output of 22,000 tons.

Because of higher import costs, Chinese buyers are offering much lower prices than previously expected. If South Africa turns out to be a large source, it will also affect the prices of American pecan growers.

Consumption of pecans in China is between 55,000 and 65,000 tons. However, pecan exports to China from the United States have fallen by almost 20% since 2012, a decline that could be directly linked to increased output in South Africa.

South Africa is expected to set a record of crop output around 19,000 tons this year, with output of 45,000 tons expected by 2022, according to current information.