New Market Opportunities Set To Open Up for California Walnuts

The California Walnut Commission (CWC) has announced success in securing significant funding from USDA to support the expansion of market opportunities and the growing demand for California walnuts worldwide. USDA has awarded the CWC $3.6 million through the 2025 Market Access Program (MAP). In addition, the CWC has received $14 million in Regional Agriculture Promotion Program (RAPP) funds, to be utilized over the next five years.

These combined funds from MAP and RAPP will play a crucial role in the CWC’s efforts to develop and enhance market opportunities for California walnuts in key international markets. The MAP funding will enable the CWC to continue its ongoing strategic marketing initiatives and promotional activities aimed at increasing availability and consumer desire of California walnuts. The substantial RAPP funding will further support long-term market development and trade missions, fostering sustainable growth and expanding the reach of California walnuts to new and emerging markets.

“We are thrilled to receive this substantial support from the USDA,” says Robert Verloop, CEO of the California Walnut Commission. “These funds will significantly enhance our ability to promote California walnuts on a global scale, ensuring that consumers around the world can enjoy the high quality and nutritional benefits of our product. We are committed to leveraging this funding to drive demand, open new markets, and support the economic growth of our industry.”

The CWC’s strategic initiatives will focus on key markets across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, where there is a growing demand for healthy and nutritious food products. By collaborating with international partners, the CWC aims to strengthen its market position and increase the visibility of California walnuts.

For more information, visit walnuts.org.