India stands as a global leader in the production and export of cashew kernels and cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL). Central to this achievement is the Cashew Export Promotion Council of India (CEPCI), established in 1955 with the mission to promote these exports.

CEPCI has been instrumental in shaping the industry’s landscape through policy support, trade promotion, and certification initiatives.

Policy Support

CEPCI collaborates closely with the Government of India to formulate and implement policies that bolster the cashew sector. A notable policy intervention was the reduction of the Basic Customs Duty on raw cashew nuts from 5% to 2.5% in 2018, aiming to make raw materials more affordable for processors.

Additionally, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on cashew nuts was reduced from 12% to 5%, further easing the financial burden on stakeholders.

To enhance market access, CEPCI has organized buyer-seller meets and facilitated participation in international trade fairs under the Market Access Initiative (MAI) scheme. These efforts are designed to tap into new markets and expand the global reach of Indian cashew products.

Trade Promotion

Trade promotion is a cornerstone of CEPCI’s strategy. The council organizes global buyer-seller meets, providing a platform for exporters and importers to connect and establish business relationships. These events have been pivotal in expanding India’s cashew export markets.

In the fiscal year 2011-12, India exported 131,000 metric tonnes of cashew kernels, generating revenue of Rs. 4,390 crore. The United States was the largest importer, accounting for 47,611 tonnes valued at Rs. 1,470.47 crore. Other significant importers included the United Arab Emirates, the Netherlands, Japan, and Saudi Arabia.

CEPCI’s efforts have also focused on diversifying export destinations and promoting value-added products to meet varying consumer preferences globally.

Certifications and Quality Assurance

Maintaining high-quality standards is crucial for sustaining India’s reputation in the global market. CEPCI has established the CEPC Laboratory and Technical Division in Kollam, Kerala, to ensure product quality. This laboratory offers testing services for food products, water, and other quality parameters, providing consultancy services to the food processing industry.

The laboratory is equipped with advanced analytical equipment and houses specialized departments in microbiology, chemistry, and biotechnology. These facilities ensure that Indian cashew products meet international quality and safety standards, thereby enhancing their competitiveness in the global market.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite its successes, the Indian cashew export sector faces challenges such as competition from other producing countries, fluctuating raw material prices, and changing market dynamics. Labor costs and availability also remain concerns for the industry. CEPCI addresses these challenges through initiatives like promoting mechanization, supporting technology adoption, and exploring new market opportunities.

The future prospects of India’s cashew export sector appear promising. Growing global demand for healthy snack options and increasing awareness of cashew’s nutritional benefits create opportunities for market expansion. CEPCI’s efforts to promote value-added products and explore new market segments contribute to the industry’s growth potential.

Partnering with Altus Exports

For Indian cashew manufacturers aiming to expand their global footprint, partnering with Altus Exports can be a strategic move. Altus Exports specializes in connecting manufacturers with international markets, offering expertise in finding buyers, access to comprehensive databases, and a skilled marketing team. By collaborating with Altus Exports, manufacturers can navigate the complexities of exporting, ensuring their products reach the right markets efficiently.

Altus Exports seeks manufacturers who produce export-quality products, aspire for global expansion, and possess the necessary documentation and certifications. By partnering with Altus Exports, manufacturers gain an extension of their business in the form of a dedicated export team, simplifying the process of entering new markets.

To explore partnership opportunities, manufacturers can visit Altus Exports’ Manufacturer Partnership page.

Conclusion

CEPCI’s comprehensive approach, encompassing policy support, trade promotion, and stringent quality assurance, has been instrumental in establishing India as a leading player in the global cashew market. By leveraging these initiatives and exploring strategic partnerships with entities like Altus Exports, Indian cashew manufacturers can further enhance their presence in international markets, contributing to the sustained growth and success of the industry.