The International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC) hosted more than 1,300 industry professionals representing 65 countries at its annual flagship congress, held in Macao, China, from May 12–14, 2026.

Opening the event, INC Executive Director Goretti Guasch outlined the organization’s three major focus areas: boosting global consumption of nuts and dried fruits, securing an official health claim, and driving sustainability initiatives across the sector. She also introduced the INC’s new Southeast Asia campaign aimed at Gen Z consumers, detailed the strategy for achieving a health claim for nuts, and announced that the INC Sustainability Certification program is now fully active and certifying businesses.

According to preliminary estimates shared during the congress round tables, worldwide tree nut production for the 2026/27 season is expected to remain largely unchanged at around six million metric tons. Almond production is forecast to rise by 3%, while walnuts are likely to stay nearly flat at 0.15% growth. Hazelnut output could increase significantly by 39%, whereas cashew production may dip slightly by 3%. Pistachio production is projected to decline by 36% because of the crop’s off-year cycle. Strong increases are anticipated for Brazil nuts (+81%) and pine nuts (+63%), while peanut production may ease by 6%. Dried fruit production overall is expected to climb 11%, supported by a 22% increase in raisins and a 52% recovery in apricot output.

Beyond weather-related concerns, participants highlighted ongoing shipping challenges, higher logistics expenses, geopolitical tensions, tariffs, and trade restrictions as major issues affecting the industry.

The congress also featured presentations from Brandy Niu, Vice President of JD.com, who explored growth opportunities in China’s snack market, and Jason Fu, chief AI specialist at Feishu, who discussed the transformative role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future digital workforce. In addition, the Nutrition Research Seminar presented research highlighting the role of nuts and dried fruits in supporting diabetes prevention and healthy weight management.

During the INC Awards ceremony, Chacha Food and Three Squirrels received the Corporate Golden Nut Award. Cao Derong, President of the China Chamber of Commerce (CFNA), was honored with the Honorary Golden Nut Award. Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to Cheng Hung Kay and Weng Yangyang. Chef Jack Lin earned recognition for Excellence in Gastronomy, while Cyril Kendall of the University of Toronto received the award for Excellence in Research.

Closing the congress, INC Chairman Ashok Krishen described the 43rd INC Congress in Macao as a major success and reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to promoting the nutritional value of nuts and dried fruits, expanding consumption worldwide, and advancing sustainability across the industry.

Peat is a crucial component in soil and potting mixes, valued by home gardeners and commercial growers for its ability to enhance soil quality and retain moisture. Beyond its practical applications, peat offers environmental benefits such as carbon sequestration and wildlife support. Recognizing peat as a finite natural resource with ecological importance, we emphasize responsible sourcing practices. Many of our Canadian peat moss production sites hold Veriflora certification for Responsibly Managed Peatlands, reflecting our dedication to preserving and restoring these ecosystems. Strict Canadian regulations govern the use and conservation of peatland resources.

Scotts Canada actively collaborates with universities through the Peatland Ecology Research Group (PERG), a partnership among scientists, the peat industry, and government agencies. This collaboration enhances our understanding of peatland ecology and informs best practices for restoration. PERG’s mission focuses on advancing knowledge about peatlands and wetlands, promoting ecological restoration, and supporting responsible peatland management.

Recent studies have highlighted significant findings:

We are also committed to fostering respectful relationships with Canadian Indigenous communities in regions where we harvest sphagnum peat moss. For instance, we support an Aboriginal Knowledge Study in New Brunswick, documenting the historical use of peatlands by the Mi’kmaq communities. This initiative includes excavations to preserve cultural artifacts and interviews to compile historical and traditional knowledge, with a report completed in 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peat Sourcing
Why is peat moss so popular among gardeners?
Peat moss is highly effective in promoting plant health. It is lightweight, free from weeds, pests, and pollutants, and enhances nutrient and water availability—key factors for successful gardening. Its consistent quality also makes it ideal for growing media mixes.

Can peat harvesting be sustainable?
Yes, sustainable peat harvesting is possible. Certifications like the SCS Global Services’ Responsibly Managed Peatlands program ensure best practices are followed. This certification involves annual audits, site visits, worker interviews, and emphasizes post-harvest restoration of peatlands.

What is peatland restoration?
Peatland restoration aims to revive the ecological functions of peatlands, including biodiversity, water regulation, and carbon storage.

How does ScottsMiracle-Gro promote responsible peat harvesting?
ScottsMiracle-Gro complies with Veriflora standards and government regulations to conserve peatlands. Additionally, Scotts Canada contributes to research with PERG, focusing on peatland management, biodiversity, hydrology, greenhouse gas dynamics, and sphagnum farming.

Click here to know more about ScottsMiracleGro's commitment to corporate responsibility.