1. 2024 Estimates
Production: ~450,000-500,000 metric tons (raw cashew nuts)
Export Volume: ~350,000-380,000 metric tons (processed kernels)
Export Value: $3.2-3.5 billion USD (maintaining world's #1 exporter position with 60-65% global market share)
Key Challenges:
Climate change impacts (droughts in Central Highlands)
Growing competition from African producers (Ivory Coast, Tanzania)
2. 2025 Projections
Production: Expected 5% increase if weather conditions improve
Export Target: $3.8-4.0 billion USD, with focus on:
Premium grades (W180, W240) for Western markets
Value-added products (roasted, flavored, organic varieties)
Growth Drivers:
New free trade agreements (particularly EVFTA with Europe)
Increased processing automation to enhance competitiveness
3. Major Export Markets (2024)
United States (~35% of total exports)
European Union (Netherlands, Germany, UK as top importers)
China (increasing demand for raw processing materials)
4. Government Support Programs
Sustainable Agriculture: Expanding organic cultivation in Dak Lak, Binh Phuoc provinces
Brand Development: Implementing PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) for "Vietnamese Cashew"
1. Grades & Quality Standards
W180, W210, W240, W320, W450: Classified by count per pound (e.g., W180 = 180 kernels/pound). W180 is the premium grade (large, whole kernels).
Export Standards:
Moisture: ≤ 5%
Foreign Matter: ≤ 0.5%
Broken Rate: ≤ 5–15% (varies by grade)
Color: Uniform ivory to light yellow.
2. Packaging Specifications
Packaging:
10–25 kg carton boxes (with inner PE liner for moisture resistance).
Vacuum-sealed bags (1kg, 5kg for roasted cashews).
Shelf Life: 12 months (under dry conditions, <25°C).
3. International Certifications
HACCP, ISO 22000: Food safety compliance.
Organic (EU/USDA): For organic cashews.
Fair Trade: For EU/US markets.
4. Main Product Lines
Raw Cashews: Unheated, for further processing/roasting.
Roasted Cashews: Dry-roasted or flavored (salted, honey, wasabi, etc.).
Organic Cashews: Chemical-free farming, 20–30% higher price.
5. Key Export Markets
USA & EU: Prefer whole kernels (W180–W240), standard packaging.
China & India: Import raw cashews for reprocessing.
Middle East: Favor flavored roasted cashews.