Commodity Online
KOCHI: India has retained its leadership position in cashew exports in 2007-08 by exporting 1,14,340 tonnes valued at Rs 2289 crore. Vietnam and Brazil are closely behind India in exports.

The uptrend in exports is continuing into the current fiscal also. In 2007, during the April-July period, the exports was 10014 tonnes valued at Rs 189.72 crore which has risen to 11276 tonnes valued at Rs 189.46 crore.

Vietnam slipped in exports due to stringent quality norms from consuming countries, trade sources said. Among India’s major markets are United States, Netherlands and UAE.

India’s cashew is facing stiff competition from badam, pistachio and walnut which are produced mainly in USA and other developed countries. These countries have been increasing their marketing thrust on such products worldwide. To counter this competition, Cashew Export Promotion Council (CEPC) is forming a Global Cashew Association in which Brazil and Vietnam has shown interest to become members.

Increased domestic consumption and rising exports have turned favourable for cashew market with prices presently ruling at Rs 300 per kg as against Rs 189 per kg prevailing in July 2007.

Although India is a major exporter of cashew, bulk of it is met through imports of raw cashew which is then turned into kernel and other value added products such as cashewnut shell liquid.