Why Are Pistachios Suddenly So Expensive?
Friday, October 30, 2026172 words3 minutes200 reads
Pistachios are becoming more expensive in some Chinese shops, while some retailers limit purchases. At a Beijing wholesale market, their average price rose about 27% between January and October 2026. Different stores may raise prices or restrict sales at different times because they bought their stock at different times.
Part of the explanation lies in California. A March heatwave arrived while pistachio trees were flowering. Heat can damage pollen, which normally travels on the wind between male and female flowers. Poor pollination can leave empty shells. Trees also naturally alternate between larger and smaller crops; after 2025's record harvest, a smaller crop was already expected.
Dry weather and trade difficulties have affected Iran too. Industry forecasts suggest global production could fall by more than a third this season, although final totals may differ. China relies heavily on imported pistachios.
Demand remains strong for snacks, desserts and fashionable pistachio-filled chocolate. Less supply can push prices up. Planting more trees offers no quick solution: their first small crop usually takes five or six years.
