The Australian Macadamia Society estimates this year’s crop, which is handled by the society, will be 33,000 tonnes, which is down on the original 45,000t forecast.

Society chairman Andrew Pearce said growers had suffered from strong overseas competition.

The organisation’s chief executive Jolyon Burnett blamed the drop on an early flowering combined with heavy frost and hail in some areas.

“Lengthy rain periods and resultant husk spot may also have reduced the crop in NSW,” she said.

Upward pressure could be placed on prices because of continuing strong demand from Europe.