Prepare for El Niño
Fueled by unusually warm ocean waters in the tropical Pacific, El Niño conditions are developing and are set to influence global temperature and rainfall patterns, increasing the risk of extreme weather over the coming months. A new El Niño/La Niña Update from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) indicates an 80% likelihood of an El Niño event during […]
Regulatory News Affecting the Nut and Dried Fruit Trade
EU: Update on Timing of Increased Nickel ML in Pecans As noted in previous INC updates, the European Commission is working on raising the maximum level (ML) for nickel in pecans from 3.5 mg/kg to 10 mg/kg. According to FRUCOM, due to internal delays, a vote to amend the ML will not be possible in June […]
Updates on Policies Shaping Import and Export Conditions in Key Markets
Brazil-USA: Trump Administration Proposes 25% Tariff on Brazilian Goods On June 1, 2026, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) proposed a 25% tariff on many imports from Brazil, after determining that the country had engaged in unfair trade practices in multiple areas, ranging from digital trade to deforestation. The proposal is being put forth […]
INC Presents Sustainability Certification to US Industry Professionals
Following the formalization of its partnership with DFA of California as an official auditing body, the INC Sustainability Certification continues to gain strong momentum with first audits now underway! Most recently, the program was presented by INC Sustainability Manager, Ramon Botet, at Safe Food California—DFA’s flagship annual conference held in Monterey from April 7–9. The […]
Food Safety Update
EU: Plant Protection Products Update The European Commission has published an implementing regulation on the methods of sampling and analysis, and on the interpretation of results for the official control of pesticide residues in and on food and feed of plant and animal origin. The new regulation, which repeals Directive 2002/63/EC and will apply from […]
INC Tariff Report & Updates
Iran: US Announces Blockade of Iranian Ports After Failed Peace Talks Following the breakdown of US-Iran peace talks in Pakistan on April 12, 2026, US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced a blockade of all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports, effective April 13. The announcement said the blockade would “be enforced impartially against vessels of […]
INC Provides Input on First Draft of Codex Code of Practice on Ochratoxin A
As noted previously, the INC is taking part in a Codex Alimentarius electronic working group tasked with developing a code of practice aimed at preventing and reducing ochratoxin A (OTA) contamination in dried fruits, specifically raisins, dried apricots, dried figs, dried dates, and prunes. In March, the chair of the working group shared the first […]
INC Nuts and Dried Fruit Global Statistical Review 2025 Edition, Available Now!
The Nuts & Dried Fruit Global Statistical Review 2025 Edition is now available exclusively for our members! Click here to download it now! This annual publication offers a decade-in-review of global production, trade, and consumption trends for nuts and dried fruit. Here’s a sneak peek of what you will find inside the publication: Production Growth: […]
65th International Seedless Dried Grape Producing Countries Conference
The 65th International Seedless Dried Grape Producing Countries Conference was held in Upington, South Africa, from November 18-21, 2025. Topics covered included the current global supply and demand dynamics, stock levels and production estimates. Delegates from Argentina, Australia, India, Türkiye, and South Africa participated in person, while representatives from Greece, Chile, and the United States […]
INC World Nut & Dried Fruit Congress 2026 to Bring Global Industry Leaders to Macao
The International Nut & Dried Fruit Council (INC) is gearing up to host its prestigious World Nut & Dried Fruit Congress in Macao, drawing more than 1,200 owners, presidents, and CEOs from leading companies across more than 65 countries. The annual event is widely regarded as the sector’s most influential global gathering, offering a platform […]