Browse Data and Analysis

Record-high remittances continue to boost consumer spending in 2024. U.S. agricultural exports to Nicaragua through September 2024 are up four percent compared to the same period in 2023.

In 2023, Australia's foodservice industry was worth A$59 billion (US$39.1 billion). However, rising inflation and the overall cost of living have hindered its growth in 2023 and 2024.

Milk production for 2025 in Australia is forecast to increase by 1.1 percent to 8.8 million metric tons (MMT) after strong growth of 2.7 percent for 2024 at an estimated 8.7 MMT from previous years of declining production.

In June 2024, the Nicaraguan Institute of Agricultural Protection and Health (IPSA) issued an executive resolution to strengthen the risk mitigation measures for the monitoring and testing of GE grains.

The Australian federal government’s strong support for biotechnology is evident in its considerable long-term funding commitment to research and development. Despite the contentious nature of biotech in Australia, the federal government remains a strong proponent, investing heavily in research and development and approving various genetically engineered crops for commercial use.

Australian winter crops have had very challenging seasonal conditions for MY 2024/25, including low soil moisture at planting, below-average rainfall, and frost damage.

Australia’s table grape production is forecast to increase to 230,000 metric tons (MT) in marketing year (MY) 2024/25, the second largest on record, from an estimated 195,000 MT in MY 2023/24.

Consumer trends in Nicaragua are shifting towards modern retail channels as remittance flows increase. Supermarkets are expanding rapidly, with one grocery store chain opening eight new locations in 2024.

FAS China forecasts commercial production of in-shell walnuts to rebound 11 percent to 1.5 MMT in MY 2024/25 supported by favorable growing conditions in major production areas. Improved world supplies and changing dietary concepts will likely drive nut imports to continue rising.

Australia and the United Arab Emirates announced that negotiations on a new trade agreement, the Australia-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, have concluded.

Australia is experiencing a cost-of-living crisis due to rising inflation. Consumer behavior and societal trends are driving shifts in shopping habits. Meanwhile, sustainability, waste reduction, food integrity, and healthy eating are key factors influencing product choices.

In 2024, Australian beef supply has surged and is projected to reach the second-highest production level on record in 2025. This anticipated expansion follows a major turning point in 2024, with production estimated to increase by 14 percent from 2023 and 34 percent from the 2022 low.