The global cashew market 

The Global Cashew Market: A Resilient End to 2025 with Rising Prices

The global cashew market, with its complex supply chains stretching from Africa to Asia, is a constantly evolving sector. As the 2025 season concludes, industry players are observing a clear trend: rising prices and sustained demand.

1. Robust Global Harvests, but Limited Stocks

Global production of raw cashew nuts (RCN) saw notable growth in 2025, primarily driven by performance in West Africa.

• African Production: Countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Côte d'Ivoire recorded high yields. Côte d'Ivoire, the global leader, achieved record production, contributing massively to the overall supply.

• Asian Production: India and Vietnam also maintained significant production levels, though these countries are increasingly focused on processing.

Despite these impressive figures, global RCN stocks are dwindling. A large portion of the harvests has been processed or shipped, creating supply tension for the end of the year. This relative scarcity is the main driver of the current price increase.

2. The Pivotal Role of Processing Giants

While West Africa dominates production, Asia holds sway over the processing and trade of cashew kernels. Vietnam and India alone process over 80% of the world's cashews.

• Vietnam: Vietnam remains the world's leading exporter of cashew kernels. Its highly automated factories ensure consistent quality and massive volumes, meeting demand from European and American markets. Vietnamese processing capacity continues to grow, adapting to increased African production.

• India: Traditionally a major producer and processor, India is increasingly focusing on domestic consumption while still remaining a key exporter.

Massive imports of RCN from Africa to Asia are a key indicator of market health. An increase in these commodity flows signals strong demand from processors, who are anticipating high sales in consumer markets.

3. Global Demand Is Booming

Demand for cashew kernels is thriving, driven by several factors:

• Health and Wellness: Cashews are perceived as a healthy ingredient, rich in healthy fats and protein. They are increasingly used in snacks, granolas, and energy bars.

• Innovation: The food industry uses cashews for value-added products, such as plant-based milks, cheese alternatives (cashew cheeses), and purées.

• Emerging Markets: Beyond Europe and North America, demand is strong in emerging countries in Asia and the Middle East, where the middle class is expanding.

This constant and diversified demand places positive pressure on cashew prices.

4. The Logistics Challenge and Its Impact on Price

The global cashew supply chain is complex.

• Freight Costs: Although supply chains have stabilized compared to previous years, maritime freight costs and logistical challenges (container availability, transport delays) remain a concern. These costs are reflected in the final price of the cashew kernel.

• Security and Traceability: Importers are becoming more demanding about quality, traceability, and ethical production standards. Meeting these requirements is a constant challenge for producers and processors.

Conclusion and Investment Outlook

The global cashew market is positioned robustly for the end of 2025. The combination of a tightening supply, strong global demand, and stabilizing logistics creates a favorable environment for an upward price trend. For investors, this means the cashew sector continues to offer attractive return potential, whether through investment in processing units, wholesale trade, or commodity-based financial products.