Most of us know candlenut—or kemiri, as it’s called in Indonesia—as a kitchen essential that adds richness and flavor to countless traditional dishes. But candlenut is much more than a culinary staple. For generations, it’s also been a trusted natural remedy, particularly for hair care and skin treatment. Its oil is known to strengthen hair roots, add shine, and even soothe irritated skin.
Today, this humble nut is evolving into a high-demand export commodity, especially in the health and beauty industries. And unsurprisingly, Indonesia, the world’s top producer of candlenuts, is beginning to embrace modern production methods to maximize its export potential.
Let’s dive into why Indonesia’s candlenut export is heating up and where the biggest global opportunities lie.
A Surge in Global Demand
According to recent global export data compiled by Volza, there were 603 candlenut shipments globally, involving 113 exporters and 130 buyers across various countries. That may sound niche, but it highlights how interconnected the global trade for this product has become.
Interestingly, Australia, Singapore, and Malaysia top the list of importers—especially in the Asia-Pacific region, where traditional and natural health products are widely accepted and deeply rooted in consumer habits.
Unsurprisingly, Indonesia leads the global market, contributing 544 of those 603 shipments. China and the United States follow with 25 and 11 shipments, respectively. Indonesia’s dominance in this space is largely due to its ideal climate and fertile soil, which allow for the natural cultivation of candlenuts, especially in regions like Nusa Tenggara Timur and Sulawesi.
But the presence of China and the U.S.—two massive markets—signals a growing global appetite for this nut and its byproducts, even in markets not traditionally familiar with it.
What’s Being Exported?
The global trade for candlenuts is classified under three main HSN (Harmonized System Nomenclature) codes:
- HSN 08029000 – For edible nuts not specified elsewhere
- HSN 61091020 – For apparel potentially containing oil extracts
- HSN 09109990 – For spices and natural ingredients
This diverse classification shows just how versatile candlenut is. It’s not only found in the food aisle—it’s a staple in cosmetics, essential oils, traditional medicine, and even organic skincare.
Candlenut Oil: The Star Product
Candlenut oil, derived from the Aleurites moluccanus tree, is the star of the show in the global health and beauty space. Known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hair-strengthening properties, candlenut oil has become a go-to ingredient in premium natural product lines.
According to a recent report from Valuates Reports, the candlenut oil market is expected to grow significantly between 2023 and 2030. Demand is fueled by the rising consumer trend toward organic and chemical-free products.
In North America, the market is projected to climb steadily year after year, supported by a growing interest in holistic wellness and clean beauty.
In the Asia-Pacific region, demand is expected to surge even faster. Consumers here are already familiar with traditional oils and are increasingly seeking premium organic alternatives for personal care.
Countries driving this growth include:
- USA
- Canada
- Germany
- France
- UK
- China
- India
- Indonesia
- Thailand
- Malaysia
With Indonesia already being a top supplier, the country has a unique edge to scale up and take full advantage of the booming candlenut oil market.
The Price of Candlenut in Global Markets
Data from Asian Commerce (2023) shows a notable increase in global demand for raw and processed candlenuts, especially as natural ingredients gain mainstream acceptance.
Locally in Indonesia, especially in Nusa Tenggara Timur, raw candlenut sells for about IDR 40,000/kg (roughly $2.50). But once processed into essential oil, the price can soar up to IDR 700,000/kg (over $45).
That’s a massive value jump, making it a highly profitable export for small businesses, cooperatives, and local producers who can invest in processing technology.
Even candlenut shells—often discarded as waste—can fetch up to IDR 25,000/kg, depending on the quality. This opens up multiple revenue streams from a single product.
Top Countries with Untapped Export Potential
Let’s talk numbers. According to Export Potential Map data, here are seven countries with huge untapped potential for Indonesian candlenut exports:
- China
- Potential: $300 million
- Actual exports: $11 million
- Untapped market: $289 million
- United States
- Potential: $113 million
- Actual exports: $61,000
- Untapped market: $112 million
- Thailand
- Actual exports already at $78 million—fully tapped potential.
- India
- Potential: $53 million
- Actual exports: $31 million
- Germany
- Potential: $34 million
- Actual exports: less than $1,000
The data speaks volumes. There’s huge room for growth, especially in the U.S. and European markets, where consumer interest in clean beauty and natural supplements is skyrocketing.
To succeed, exporters need to meet strict quality standards, get proper certifications (halal, organic, etc.), and focus on branding and digital marketing to appeal to these buyers.
Recent Export Milestones
Indonesia is already making moves. A great example is Kemiri Sultan Pinrang, a company in South Sulawesi that recently exported 3,000 kg of candlenuts to Hong Kong—its fourth export batch since 2020.
Each shipment came with international-standard packaging, barcode labeling, and halal certification. It’s a perfect showcase of how even SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) can go global with the right mindset and preparation.
In March 2024, another major player, CV Heskin Alfarizi, exported 10.2 tons of candlenut to Saudi Arabia from the Port of Makassar. This marked a big step forward for Indonesia’s export diversification, highlighting that even traditional commodities can find success in premium markets when value-added processing and certifications are in place.
Final Thoughts: A Nut Worth Exporting
The global market is ready—and hungry—for Indonesian candlenut products. Whether it’s the whole nut, the oil, or even its byproducts, the demand is there.
If you’re a local entrepreneur, cooperative, or exporter looking for your next big move, candlenut might just be your golden ticket. But remember: success in the export world isn’t just about having a great product—it’s about quality control, branding, market understanding, and staying aligned with international regulations.
Indonesia already has the supply, the tradition, and the expertise. Now it’s time to turn that into a global success story.
