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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“In 2017, we are actually expanding our sapling plan, and we are likely to distribute around 5 lakh saplings. Also joining
together and trying to implement this programme across Karnataka. It is a wonderful initiative to expand area under
cashews in non-traditional areas”
Mr. Tukaram Prabhu, Secretary KCMA
An Exclusive Interview with Mr. Tukaram Prabhu, Secretary KCMA -India
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are the promotional activities organised/planned by KCMA in
2017?
In 2017, we are actually expanding our sapling plan, we have tied up with
the udupi mutt under their kotiraksha programme and we are likely to
distribute around 5 lakh saplings. Also in association with the
Dharmasthala Gramabhivridhi Yojana and Vijaylakshmi Foundation all of
us in Karnataka are joining together and trying to implement this
programme. The saplings from Navneeth Nursery in Puttur, are going to
be distributed to various farmers from the month of July.
Cashews are being planted in the non Traditional area, in places like
Mandya, kolar, shimogga of Karnataka etc, your comments on that.
It is a programme of DCCD under the stewardship of Director Mr. Venkatesh Hubballi. A group of farmers who
have been regularly growing sugarcane are being well trained on the production aspects and management of
cashews and they have taken up cashews in Mandya. Moreover, a large area of cultivation has come under
cashew in Dharwad and it’s a wonderful initiative to expand area under cashews in non-traditional areas.
How was the climate in the key growing regions of Cashews in Karnataka been, what are your predictions on
cashew season this year?
This year the weather has been very favourable so far for cashews, the monsoons showers were very good.
Overall, we foresee a good crop for the 2017 season.
Do you think processing in India still viable considering the fact that wages are high, RCN prices are too high,
how are they able to cope up with the addition prices that they are incurring?
We in Karnataka are definitely are able to cope up as a result of which we are progressing, we are mechanizing
the process, hence we foresee a very bright future for cashews in Karnataka.
What are the challenges faced by importers in Tanzania?
The main advantage in Tanzania is its Good Quality of nuts and the disadvantage is their logistics. The port
facilities in Tanzania is very poor, so whatever is being procured by buyers are unable to ship it in Time and
even the ware housing facilities in Tanzania is not up to the mark . These are few facing problems faced by the
importers which need to be rectified.

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What are views on WCC, in what it is helping cashew sector and what are expectations for next year?
We have been participating since the beginning of first year. We see it’s been continuously growing and the
sessions being conducted here are very informative. For us, it’s a place, where we can meet all our concerned
people in the whole cashew value chain, it’s been helpful in that way and over the period it’s been very helpful
for the whole industry. I feel, the timing has been right, as the new season is about to begin. We have this
WCC, which in turn provides us the feedback and trends about the season. We hope the same thing continues
in the future

 

 

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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“P Sundaran says Kollam being the capital of Cashew, we need to have a GI certification similar to that of spices, as
Kollam cashew is unique in flavor, colour and taste that need to be registered through a new trademark or logo which
can act like as a marketing tool.The government is now assisting cashew farmers, processors and exporters in the right
path (mechanization and automation) and am very confident that by 2025 India will emerge out as a self-sufficient
country “
P Sundaran, Chairman, CEPCI and S Kannan, Executive Director and Secretary, CEPCI
An Exclusive Interview with P Sundaran, Chairman, CEPCI and S Kannan, Executive Director and Secretary, CEPCI,
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Narrate the initiatives taken by CEPCI to improve exports from India
The processing cost in India is very high when compared to other
countries like Vietnam. Vietnam has fully-mechanised cashew factories
due to which the cost is considerably reduced whereas in India we are
still depending on the traditional processing methods, which incur
higher expenditure, which in turn reduced our competitiveness in the
export market. Government of India is trying a lot to increase the production of RCN in India, which in turn
encourages exports of cashew kernels. Grant-in-aid scheme plan fund provides aid to the processors to buy
machineries to encourage mechanisation and automation, which has turned out to be successful.
Under Grant-in-Aid scheme, 88 exporters were selected. What were the benefits they derived out of this
plan scheme?
Grant-in-Aid is a one-time investment scheme from the Government of India which provides 1/3rd investment
cost for buying and installing machineries to encourage mechanisation and automation to the processors
which reduces their processing cost. We are expecting more support from the Government to the cashew
industry as it is a traditional and labour intensive industry with its workers who are mostly from the weaker
sections of the society.
Mr. Kannan, you were the marketing director of the Spice Board of India earlier. What according to you that
the cashew industry can learn from spices sector?
Largely there is couple of areas that the cashew industry can learn from the spices industry. First being the
backward integration in some of the spices like chilies, turmeric etc. The exporters are working backward with
the farmers to ensure absolute quality right from the farm gate to finished product. Similarly, as new areas are
coming up under cashew cultivation the exporters can have a backward integration on quality, processing,
high yielding varieties, disease resistance, residue free and such things. Second one is that, Kollam being the
capital of Cashew, we need to have a GI certification similar to that of spices, as Kollam cashew is unique in
flavor, colour and taste that need to be registered through a new trademark or logo which can act like as a
marketing tool. The third one is the quality certifications; we have an excellent quality evaluation lab which
can assure the quality performance under mandatory testing and mandatory certifications, which can ensure
whatever is exported, are of best assured quality. So I feel these three areas can definitely impact on the
cashew industry, recently I have noticed that because of the food safety aspects which is becoming more

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stringent and strict in the consuming countries Indian cashew industry needs to get tuned to meet those
requirements. I think this is a very good lead as the government is also supporting and encouraging the food
safety aspects by subsidizing 1/3rd of the cost of such efforts which will go a long way in achieving higher
export growth. The production growth which we anticipate for the next five years will have a commendable
impact leading to self-sufficiency of cashews leading us to emerge as the leading exporter of cashew kernels.
What are the challenges faced by exporters and processors today in India?
Sundaran: Presently the price of cashew kernels in domestic market is very high. India has emerged as the
biggest consumer of the world. As domestic market is fetching better price than that of export market,
processors are concentrating more on the Indian market. As result, export is coming down. Government has
realized the importance of exports and is encouraging RCN production with India having rich diversity of land
resources and enormous number of high yielding varieties and has started providing more subsidies. In that
front CEPCI has submitted a road map to improve the sustainability of cashew industry. The government is
now assisting farmers, processors and exporters in the right path (mechanization and automation) and am
very confident that by 2025 India will emerge out as a self-sufficient country
Please tell us about the CEPCI lab and its contribution
Kannan: CEPCI lab was established to ensure quality of cashew and cashew products. Now the facility of lab
has been extended to other food products -water, spices, fruits and vegetables. That’s why the Government of
India and Kerala has renamed the CEPCI lab as a research institute, that includes more of research activities
not only in product but also in market research, which will further provide a better boost for the industry and
also a chance for commodities and markets to develop and grow. We are also training people on testing,
examining the quality as well as ensuring food safety. These kinds of training program have a big impact over a
period of time. We can have an absolutely quality control at every stage and assure that the Indian Cashews
are the safest for consumption.
What are the views on WCC and what are your expectations for next year?
Sundaran: You have done a good job, for the last three years. You have been assembling the cashew fraternity
together, where we can easily exchange our ideas and views and discuss on the future aspects of the cashew
industry.
Kannan: I could see from the interaction inside and outside the conference hall, WCC is a massive success. I
think this has been the biggest gathering of the WCC also, if you take this forward to the consuming market it
will have an even better impact. It’s a very good initiative taken up by Foretell Business Solutions and I think
WCC has even better days in future.

 

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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“Caronut, is acting like a bridge for communities to reach capital for cashew processors by providing finance from
financial institutions”
Ms Sarah Sherman, Mr Kalifa Belem and Ms Achta Cherif of Caronut
An Exclusive Interview with Ms Sarah Sherman, Mr Kalifa Belem and Ms Achta Cherif of Caronut,
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Please explain the presence of Caronut in Africa. Also as you are present in other nuts, how is cashew
different from other nuts?
Caronut started buying from Africa seven years ago, when we bought our first container from Burkina Faso.
When we started, we were buying mixed containers. We weren’t buying one particular grade. Then we made
commitment to work with small scale processors and provided to bridge financing, thus helping those
processors in Africa. It’s a new industry and since then we have over seven different sourcing regions like West
African countries, East African countries, Vietnam and it’s quite complicated. We have around 26 different
grades, which end up in our warehousing facility and cashew is somewhat complicated when compared to
other nuts.

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Caronut, is acting like a bridge for communities to reach capital. How is it able to reach and identify the
target communities? What are the criteria’s one must have to avail these benefits?
Caronut helps to get finance by connecting processor and financial institutions. We try to connect them, help
them with documentation to get the much needed financial assistance.
How does Caronut help the people by supplying purchase contracts? What credibility is verified when
Caronut introduces them to the new markets which are of different national, political or geographic
borders?
We help them to get loan from financial institutions and we provide them certain contracts. If the contracts
are agreed, then we visit and train them first and later assist them about the methods to process and ways to
ship it to us. We also test the containers, so as to ensure the quality of the produce. We also help them to
increase and improve their efficiency of processing capacity. We discuss with the processors, finalize the
number of containers, acceptance of the quality level and then sign in the contracts. By doing this, we are very
confident that we will be delivered with good quality containers.
Traceability is one of the biggest concerns now. How does Caronut achieve the same?
We have our team on the ground for e.g., we have Achta in Ivory Coast and Kalifa in Burkina Faso. They
physically visit the factories. Moreover, we are buying RCN from local factories. We are able to have a better
connection with the source and have a better idea as to from where the RCN is coming. We have people who
assist the processing of kernels and see to that everything is taken care of.
Your views on WCC and any suggestions for the future events
Sarah Sherman: We are looking to meet new suppliers and see our current partners. It’s a very good platform
to further get good connections through networking in the cashew industry and get knowledge as to what are
the new trend and developments in the cashew industry going forward and all in one place
Kalifa Belem: We can assimilate a lot of latest information, market updates and what are things happening
around the world in the cashew sector on processing, new technology trends, farming aspects and thus
benefits us a lot.
Achta Cherif: Its one place, where we can meet different actors of the cashew value chain i.e., farmers,
processors, financial institutions etc., It’s a very good place to meet people and network with.

 

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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“The government has introduced various systems for the movement of cashew nuts from the farms to the warehouses
and this has lead to increase in production records and certain initiatives to improve processing in Tanzania. In 2016/17
has recorded around 255,000 metric tonnes of cashews production”
Mr. Peter L Masawe, Head of Research, Regional Coordinator, NM-AIST, Tanzania
An Exclusive Interview with Mr. Peter L Masawe, Head of Research, Regional Coordinator, NM-AIST, Tanzania
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
How was the season so far in Tanzania, what was the farm gate price offered to the
farmers and your message for WCC?
The season in Tanzania was very exciting; there was a very stiff competition among the
buyers, for the first time in the history of cashew trade in Tanzania we had many buyers
from various countries i.e., Vietnam, India and other places. The prices started on a very
high note and they continued to remain high throughout the season. Farmers felt cashew
is a cash crop as they have made high profits and thus has helped to rescue their life from poverty. Indeed, the
prices were extraordinarily high; I wonder how processors were making profit. On the other hand, let’s be
happy that farmers were encouraged. The government has also introduced various systems for the movement
of cashew nuts from the farms to the warehouses and this has lead to increase in production records. Tanzania
this year (2016/17) has recorded around 255,000 metric tonnes of cashews.
With ever increasing demand for RCN, do you think there is scope for Tanzania, to increase its area under
cashew cultivation and what are the initiatives taken to improve the area as well as production?
Increasing area under production is one thing, increasing production and productivity is another thing. The
best approach so far is increasing productivity before increasing area under production. Most of the cashews
from Tanzania are from the southern regions that account almost up to 80% of overall production. But, if we
concentrate more on all the other growing areas in Tanzania, to utilise maximum out of the area, which is
already planted, rehabilitate the existing bushes, before we move into non-traditional cashew growing areas
are some of the initiatives that has to be taken.
You work in an educational institution, where in you promote new ideas like inter cropping, mulching etc.
How are farmers reacting to the new changes which are brought in?
As a cashew breeder in a research institute, am happy to inform you that Tanzania has released a total of 54
varieties in cashew nut, 16 cashew clones and two cashew hybrids, which are conventional registered. In terms
of contributions of research institutions, we are striving to ensure that the farmers are getting these new
varieties which can yield up to 100 kilograms/ tree at the age of 10 years. More importantly, we are training
our farmers towards good agronomic practices, as incidence of pest and diseases can lead to a crop loss of
more than 70%, hence choosing the right pesticide and its application on the trees in the optimum period can
tremendously increase the crop size in Tanzania. Intercropping and mixed cropping plays a substantial role for
big farmers, as intercropping in cashews right now is not a choice, but mandatory for new plantations. This
operation not only increases the overall income of farmer, but also will cut short the operational cost.

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How well is awareness on utilisation potential of cashew apples, CNSL, and other by products of cashew in
Tanzania?
Although Tanzania is the biggest cashew producer in East Africa, still its lowest in terms of value addition, and
one of the main reasons why we are not processing in Tanzania is because of high price of RCN. Moreover,
farmers feel trading in RCN is more profitable. This is an area where the government has to think twice before
taking a decision as to improve our processors to able compete in the world market. Utilization of cashew
apple and other by products is very low. At the research station level, we have developed a protocol for
cashew apple production and are readying up for scaling but CNSL and other by products are not very well
exploited yet in Tanzania. This might one of the other reason as to why processors in Tanzania are not yet
making high profits and are not competitive in the international markets.
What are the hindrances faced by the Tanzanian exporters?
Over the years, the percentage of cashew processing is decreasing drastically in Tanzania, mainly due to high
price of RCN. Most of the processors are exporters and are more inclined towards exporting RCN than
Processing. If you are exporting, you receive the returns within 10-15 days but if we are processing then you
may have to wait for 250-300 days. In this regard the government has to take certain initiatives to improve
processing in Tanzania
What are the initiatives taken by the government of Tanzania, for the betterment of the whole cashew
industry?
Current Government of Tanzania is very interested in value addition of cashews. The President has declared
that the country to be converted into an industrialised hub and cashew has a huge potential. So am very
confident that the government will support the processors. On behalf of Tanzanian government, I invite
processors who are interested in setting up Cashew factories in Tanzania. Government has a budget to
construct three cashew processing factories in different parts of the country. For, all those we are looking for
partners and we are inviting investors to come and invest in Tanzania
Please tell us about the port conjunctions and the issue of usage of Mtwara port or Dar es Salaam port in
Tanzania?
Cashew is a crop, which is influenced by local and international politics. The government was making sure that
the cashews are exported through Mtwara, as it is very easy to control cheating and we are very sure this
problem will be resolved very soon. Mtwara will be able to handle huge volumes. Moreover, we have now
taken strict measures to see that even if the trade occurs in Dar es Salaam or Tanga ports, there are strict
measures to see to that the cashews are sold only through warehouse systems

 

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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“Guinea Bissau exports about 200,000 tons of raw nuts and the processing is very low. Our projects therefore mainly
involve increasing the level of this link in the cashew value chain”
Mr Jauad Bruno, General Director, Investment Promotion Agency, Guinea Bissau
An Exclusive Interview with Mr Jauad Bruno, General Director, Investment Promotion Agency, Guinea Bissau,
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What are your activities and brief your agency contribution towards agriculture?
Thank you for this opportunity. The Investment Promotion Agency of Guinea Bissau is a
governmental structure working on investment promotion in the country. As far as the
question of agricultural sectors, we are working on their promotion, particularly on
processing of raw cashew nuts. The government offers tax and customs incentives to
attract investors. We are taking measures to facilitate investment and help investors
settle in Guinea Bissau.
You are inviting foreign investors to invest in processing of raw cashew nuts in Guinea Bissau; will this not
be a hindrance for local processors installed?
Investments are not an easy topic. We are currently working on the question of financing to facilitate access to
financing for local processors, but also on the possibility of creating a partnership between foreign investors
and local actors.
Mention some of the measures taken to motivate the investors, such as tax cuts etc.
We are in the UEMOA region; we have an advantageous investment code. The government takes
administrative and legal measures to facilitate any investment issues. It is very easy to start a business today in
Guinea Bissau. The government is committed to working on private sector development, facilitating their
activities and taking measures that will help all stakeholders in the sector.
Given that Guinea Bissau, which is one of the five biggest cashew producing countries, appeals to foreign
investors in the country, are you making the right arrangements to increase the country’s production level?
As you know, Guinea Bissau is the second biggest producer of cashew in Africa and our cashew nut quality is
very good. We are taking steps to increase processing, as the country exports more than 80% of its raw cashew
production. This is why the government wants to attract foreign investors in order to obtain greater added
value in the sector.
What are your plans for the cashew industry for 2017 campaign?
Guinea Bissau exports about 200,000 tons of raw nuts and the processing is very low. Our projects therefore
mainly involve increasing the level of this link in the cashew value chain.

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What are your expectations for this third edition of the World Cashew Convention?
I am here to introduce Guinea-Bissau to investors and all those who do not know about the country, to present
the many opportunities we offer for investment and especially to present the country’s strategy for the
cashew nut sector.

 

Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“Our main motto is to give good performance and in the long-term perspective so we try to maintain hygiene and all
those things and then we’re going in for an expansion to have full automation of our factory”
Ms Vidya Kamath, Bola Raghavendra Kamath & Sons
An Exclusive Interview with Ms Vidya Kamath, Bola Raghavendra Kamath & Sons,
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
You have been the part of women panel which attracted a lot of
attention and appreciation, how do you feel about it?
It was a very humble experience for all the honour they received, it
was very good, you brought out the issue of women and it was an
eye-opener, especially in the cashew industry, where we in spite of
being family-oriented, there are no women who have been given a
chance to come out. In Karnataka, even Kerala a lot of family
oriented business is there from very long time, but women are
hardly given any chance to grow in the industry, maybe this panel
in WCC acts as an eye opener for many people out there in the
industry.
What are the challenges you faced initially as a women entrepreneur and how did you tackle them?
Initially the transition from being a housewife to a business entrepreneur was a different experience, in the
same way studying and understanding the business part was more of a challenge. Being a business
management graduate helped me a lot. When you look back, learning everything as you go on maybe the
benefits of the family. So you already have everything set, there are no time limit to work, but the main thing
was turning around of already successful company we had, that was the challenge for me.
What kind of recognition you get from the westerners and could you please share your experience with us?
We are basically into the Middle East market and today we have well-recognised “BOLA brand “in the Middle
East. They are very forthcoming, especially most of them are men, but they really appreciate and respect,
that’s what I felt. And once they get to know you and the brand you represent, which is known for quality,
they would like to work with you on a long-term basis and most of the brokers have been part of the business
since 2005.
As ‘BOLA’ brand is known for its quality, what are the steps taken to ensure to enhance the quality further?
We work mainly on grading of cashew kernels and maintain standard, because of our quality we usually get a
premium over the market price, especially in the Middle East. We have to take care to retain the same position
and trust that we have maintained over years. Our main motto is to give good performance and in the longterm perspective so we try to maintain hygiene and all those things and then we’re going in for an expansion
to have full automation of our factory.

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How easy or difficult for women to handle financial transactions?
Since I handle the transactions and deal with banks, it is not very difficult these days when compare to that of
yesteryears. Today the banks are more open, they come to your doorstep, it’s all changed. Initially being a
man or women doesn’t make a difference because they come across saying they will give you all benefits and
ease but once the part of all the documentation starts and then it’s a different story as it’s not very easy,
transaction between banks involves lot of processes, paperwork but there’s a lot of new technologies to ease
financial transactions, we have the Forex advisors who provide good inputs.
What according to you are the challenges faced by an exporter in India today?
Exporter’s today have to manage all the risks involved such as FOREX, price fluctuations, volatility, quality and
then we have to complete with Vietnam. With the new technology any change in price circulates very fast.
Basically being Indian we have to compete with the Indian domestic market and a lot of new exporters coming
in and we who are already established brands have to face more challenges because they might apply one or
two containers but we export in large quantities have to complete a lot it’s a very tough job but going on well.
Being a well known brand is an added advantage we have, so performance at the end of the day counts.

 

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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“Across various commodities, cashew is one of the fastest growing commodities. It will be very useful if this industry be
supported with the right mechanization. That would take the cashew processing to the next orbit of the value chain
through NanoPix grading machine”
Ms Suchitra Balasubramanyam, Mr Sasishekar Krishnamurthy, CEO and Co-Founder, Nanopix
An Exclusive Interview with Ms Suchitra Balasubramanyam, Mr Sasishekar Krishnamurthy, CEO and Co-Founder, Nanopix,
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Could you please elaborate on Nanopix, its various machines, and the uniqueness of your machines?
Nanopix are an Image-in product developing company and we have developed a unique imaging technology
through which we can grade cashews and various other commodities. Now, we have come up with an
exclusive cashew grading machine. The uniqueness of this machine is that it’s a single-pass, multiple grade
sorter machine. Due to this, the breakage is very less, accuracy is more and each individual cashew is taken
care of in same way as we humans handle it carefully.
Which are the different countries to which NanoPix has exported its cashew machines to?
We are now present in 17 states of India and we have exported to Vietnam

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What is difference between grading machine and other sorting machines?
Technology-wise, unlike all other machines in the industry which are scanning technology based, ours is
photography based. In scanning technology, we have one line at the time of an object just as a scanner or
photo copying works. But NanoPix works in a photographic technology. Last year, we captured 54 billion
cashew kernel photos. We take every cashew kernel photo and later grade it based on the characteristics it
possesses. In that way, our machine is unique and accuracy is very high. The breakage is only 2 percent and
that’s the best in the Industry presently.
Which are different variants of cashew grading machineries that Nanopix manufactures?
We are focusing from the small farmers to the big processors. Hence we have 50 Kg machine, 40 Kg machine
for small processors of Odisha and Maharashtra. We have a 75Kg machine Hamsa, 125 Kg machine Hamsa+,
now we have come up with different variants such as Hamsa++ with 175 kg and Mayur which is Color grading
and sorting machine which will have 9+2 grades with 200-400 kg capacity per hour. These capacities are
targeted based on the number of bags a manufacturer processes. Up to about 15 bags of RCN per day, we
recommend 50 Kg machine. Up to 80-90 bags, we recommend 125 Kg machine. Nowadays most
manufacturers do around 200 bags, we recommend them 175 Kg machine and beyond 200 bags we would
love to work with the customer and understand their requirements and provide them customized solutions
based on their needs and make products accordingly.
What are the future prospects of NanoPix?
We are aiming to have at least 50% market share. We want 50% of world cashew to be graded with that of
nanoPix graders by 2019. The value proposition through kernels has to increase. That’s the only way industry
can sustain and go forward with the growth rate. That’s required for sustenance. Across various commodities,
cashew is one of the fastest growing commodities. It will be very useful if this industry be supported with the
right mechanization. That would take the cashew processing to the next orbit of the value chain.
Your views on WCC
WCC is a very good platform. We got to meet a lot of people and potential buyers which in turn provided a lot
of exposure and knowledge on the world of cashews.

 

 

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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“India has got more potential as Almonds are linked to Health benefits, cultural and religious habits”
Mr Ravinder Mehta, IFNO
Experts of exclusive Interview with Mr Ravinder Mehta, IFNO, New Delhi with Cashewinfo.com
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What could be the almond crop size of California?
California produces about 83 percent of World’s Almonds with 7
percent coming from Australia, the balance is being harvested in
Spain, Iran, Afghanistan, Syria and Turkey. CY 2016 or the current
crop has been pegged at 2.13 Billion Lbs out of which 84% of the
crop has been sold, shipped and committed.
There were reports of heavy rains in the almond growing regions of
California in the month of February-March during bloom period.
Whether this will impact pollination of bees as well as the overall
crop size?
The bloom period starting from February second week saw the heavy rains and in the initial period there was
even panic of floods in many parts of California, Post the rains, the weather became really cold and the bee
pollination got effected and in turn there was question mark on the crop progress, but in few days time the
weather opened up and we had late or extended bloom with good pollination. TNT (Tera Nova Trading
Company), which does its own first hand survey of the crop, estimated through its report around 10th of April
2017, that the crop has not got damaged and in fact they have estimated at 2.27 Billion Lbs which would be 6.5
percent higher than the CY 2016. Post bloom weather conditions have been excellent with mild sunny days
with the occasional weather systems passing through the valleys. Orchard moisture levels are at optimum
levels and the record snow pack should keep water deliveries flowing for the entire growing season.
Last few years Indian imports of almond is growing significantly. Do you see the same trend to continue
during this year?
India has been the second largest consumer of Almonds after USA, though it has been the 3rd largest importer
after EU and China. India market today is around 4,50,000 tonnes of all Nuts & Dry Fruits put together valued
at whopping Four Billion US$. The potential in India is huge with the present per capita consumption being put
at the lowest. We have seen a growth of around 20% YOY Basis. Imports figures will keep on increasing every
year with markets opening up on Pan India Basis. GST, the so called game changer, will further give a level
playing field to traders across India with One Price and One Tax. The supply is also estimated to grow in both
the major origins i.e. USA & Australia which will give further boost as the prices are bound to fall. Almond
Board has done a tremendous job in ensuring the visibility through its media campaign all across the year. The
organized retail or the so called Modern Retail Chains have ensured its presence across its stands giving the
Almonds its required visibility. Further in the last couple of months our Political situation has stabilized with
the BJP being power in most of the states and its result are evident with the INR getting strengthened against

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the USD thus making imports cheaper, bringing down the prices. I am very sure that with all these positive
factors the size of India’s import is only going northwards.
What is the current almond consumption of India?
India’s current consumption of all varieties would be around 170-180 Million Lbs, India imports its
requirements from its direct origins such as USA, Australia, Iran, Syria, Turkey along with Hong Kong and Dubai
as trading centres.
Chinese Almond consumption is increasing at a faster rate when compared with that of India in the last few
years? Could you explain the reason for that?
China imports largely through its gateway ports of Hong Kong / Vietnam. Its consumption is bound to grow due
to larger population as compared to India and its economic growth which is higher and faster. The economic
boom has ensured disposable income. India has its own set of challenges on supply chain as well as
consumption pattern. It is still a myth that Almonds should not be consumed during the warmer seasons.
Further many consumers believe that Californian varieties have far less Oil Content than required or at time it
is believed that Oil gets extracted from the kernels even before it reaches the consumers. The cost is a big
issue which restricts its usage to few high or middle income consumers only. I still think that despite all above
India has got more potential as Almonds are linked health benefits, Cultural & religious habits.
In the last one year or so, almonds prices are considerably lower than of Cashews. Whether this will impact
the cashew consumption in India?
India in the recent past has seen higher consumption pattern of Cashews and Almonds both irrespective of the
prices. We need to understand the usages & consumption pattern for better understanding. India’s major
usage of Cashews is done as ingredients in curries, Sweets, Confectioneries & cookies. So irrespective of the
prices we would require Cashews. Whereas Almonds is mostly used as table snack, the entire pattern gets
reversed in USA/EU. The price elasticity come into play for Almonds as they being table snack. A consumer has
an option or can substitute the same whereas in Cashews you have only one option of decreasing the quantity
but cannot substitute. Cashews are grown, processed and accordingly easily available where as for Almonds
you need to import which takes about 60 days to reach. I don’t think that lower Almond prices will have any
impact on Cashews as it can only get substituted for table snack. India is a major consumer of broken cashews
and not of Wholes.
In which category almonds and cashews are likely to come under in the GST regime (5% or 12%) and on
what basis?
It’s a million dollar question, but hopefully the GST Council should look at the lowest rates for its increased
consumption which would give industry a boost as it employs huge labour.
How do you view the Indian rupee against the dollar going forward?
As an importer I wish the INR becomes stronger thus making imports cheaper, the fundamentals are very
strong with CAD well under control, but lower INR is also going to hurt our exports. I personally think that on
short terms basis it might touch 63.75- 64 levels, but in long term I would want it to get stabilize around 64-65
levels.

 

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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“We are the pioneers in processing of RCN, though we are not as advanced as Vietnam in mechanization, but we have
other strengths to make this processing viable. Indian processing capacity, which was 300,000 tonnes two decades ago
has moved to 17,00,000 metric tonnes presently. It is continuously growing because of mechanization and consolidation.
This will definitely go beyond 2 million tonnes very shortly”
Mr Kalbavi Prakash Rao, Director, Kalbavi Industries, Mangalore – India
An Exclusive Interview with Mr Kalbavi Prakash Rao, Director, Kalbavi Industries, Mangalore – India,
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
How was the weather so far in Mangalore, Karnataka and Ratnagiri belt of
Maharashtra? What are your predictions for cashew season 2017?
India had problem with the crop for the past 2-3 years for various reasons, mostly
because of weather conditions. This year, the weather has been conducive. The
monsoons have stopped at the right time, then there has been a dry spell, which is
required for the flowering of cashews and subsequent warm winters too which are
conducive for better quality of the crop. So, after a long time, India is expecting a better
than a normal crop. Last year, many of our experts had predicted a crop of 700,000
tonnes. For 2017, we are predicting a 10-15% increase in cashew production. In any case we are not seeing a
crop less than 750,000 tonnes.
As you are in the retail market, I just wanted to know the growth of value added cashews in India
Value added cashew products, particularly roasted and the salted cashews, have been in the market from the
very beginning. Most of these markets were taken over by local value adders. Small traders used to buy the
cashews, then add value and sell it in an unorganised way. But, in the recent past, we have got a lot of
organised trade coming into the play as far as India is concerned. The Modern Retail, as we call it, has provided
a better shelf space to the organized value adders to test their products to the consumers directly. Other than
the roasted and salted, the flavored cashews have started growing in different markets, though not in a big
scale. Hence I see a good future for value added cashews. However, as of now it’s a very small segment
probably, around 15000-18000 tonnes in my opinion.
What is effect of e-platforms on cashew trade?
It’s quite prominent these days. They weren’t in food and were more in electronic gadgets. But as far as
cashew is concerned it’s just reaching their shelf’s in the last 1-2 years. Small quantities (hardly 1000 tonnes) of
trade are carried out through these platforms. E-platforms are facing many challenges in terms of delivering to
their consumers. However, lot of young people are interested in doing e-business these days. I am sure there is
a huge potential.
Share your experience as a cashew importer from Tanzania
East African season starts from September; it’s most expected, as there is no availability of crop at this time in
the world. The quality of East African crop improved over the years. The system of marketing through the
cashew nut Board of Tanzania, warehousing for the farmers and auctioning it for them as created a very good

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marketing set up and has given good value for farmers in Tanzania. The biggest problem we face when it
comes to west Africa is the wet cargo and East Africa has very little problem when it comes of wet cargo
because of control and regulation from the cashew nut Board of Tanzania. As a regulatory effect, if the farmer
comes with nuts that are not dried properly, it will be rejected. It should be taken back, dried again before
bringing it to the warehouse. This has ensured quality and higher price that East Africa enjoys year-on-year. On
the bottleneck, challenges faced by importer are shipping out from Mtwara, which is very congested. Although
auctions occur within 3-4 weeks of commencement of season, the shipment takes place much later. We have
faced many contracts default as exporters have not been able to make committed timely shipments. I think,
the government of Tanzania has to take this issue seriously and create a much better port facility and also
ensure that the contracts are shipped out within 15 days. This year we had also a major issue i.e., confusion of
shipments between Dar es Salaam and Mtwara, that created a major block. Only 100 tonnes of cashews could
be shipped out of Dar es Salaam, while there was a requirement of shipment of 400-500 metric tonnes loaded
into the vessel. If these issues are addressed, the farmers in Tanzania will get benefited.
With increasing prices of RCN and labour cost, is processing still lucrative? How are processors making up for
the additional cost that they are incurring?
Processing in India is still feasible because India has the strength of experience. We are the pioneers in
processing of RCN. Though we are not as advanced as Vietnam in mechanization, we have other strengths to
make this processing viable. One of the major advantages we have is the booming domestic markets and
manufacturers realise higher prices in domestic market than in export markets. As far as pricing is concerned,
it’s a demand-driven market and one cannot expect a manufacturer to do a cost + profit = selling price. Since
it’s a market driven pricing, we will not see a parity situation throughout the season. We could see profits in
certain stipulated period of the year or that might prevail for the whole year. It purely depends on the supply
factor. When viability is concerned, India’s processing is defiantly viable.
What according to you is the road map to attain sustainability in cashew production in India?
Indian processing capacity, which was 300,000 tonnes two decades ago has moved to 17,00,000 metric tonnes
presently. It is continuously growing because of mechanization and consolidation. This will definitely go
beyond 2 million tonnes very shortly. Unfortunately, the production in India is hardly 700,000 tonnes. In this
front, we need to bring in a government policy in place to ensure that every state producing cashew or identity
new areas/more land should be brought under cashew cultivation. I see this as the real bottleneck as far as the
Indian growth story is concerned, particularly in the backdrop as the African countries, from where we are
importing most of the RCN, have plans to process at least 50% of their production going forward. So India must
think inward and focus more on increasing its RCN production.
What’s your view on WCC? What are your expectations for next year?
I’m really thrilled to see the kind of participation from across the world. We have good buyers, sellers and
manufacturers from around the world. Networking is fantastic. The location is good and the way it’s been
organized, I must compliment Cashewinfo for an excellent conference. I see a great future for this WCC to
grow much bigger and make its mark. I must congratulate the entire team for the efforts made so far, to make
this happen.

 

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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“ICAF is a company based in Ivory Coast that makes consultancy for companies in plant design for the engineering
segment. We help companies design the best layout for their plants, when they want to embark on processing. Future
projects in the very short term are mainly to be able to make a very good partnership with the cashew sector in order to
facilitate access to the market”
Ms Sanata Berthe-President and CEO, ICAF- Cote d’Ivoire
An Exclusive Interview with Ms Sanata Berthe-President and CEO, ICAF- Cote d’Ivoire,
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Could please elaborate about ICAF and its activities?
ICAF is a company based in Ivory Coast that makes consultancy for companies
in plant design for the engineering segment. We help companies design the
best layout for their plants, when they want to embark on processing. We also
work in the field of Consulting, Audit and Training; Consultancy as part of
standards, support for certification or implementation of standards that meet
client specifications, the same for training, and certification audits for BRC, ISO
22000 and other agro-industry standards.
With regard to the cashew sector, have you trained producers and processors to meet the various food
safety and quality standards such as HACCP, BRC system in their factories?
Yes. We have already worked with several people in the cashew industry, notably the Olam group in their
factories in Bouaké and Dimbokro for which we helped them to implement the requirements of the BRC
system. We are also working with CASA to set up their BRC certification system, which is nevertheless the
requirement of US and European industry.
Have you ever had to encounter difficulties during these trainings or the various audits you conduct?
Not really, in terms of training. We are in demand because industrialists know that they have a lack of
competence in terms of standards, so they call us to help with skills acquisition. When we enter a business, we
already know that there is a gap that we have to fill, there are no problems at this level; Industrialists are
receptive because they know they need them to access certain markets. The problem we face is mainly in the
counseling and support sector. When manufacturers, especially transformers, need to set up standards, we
have difficulties in acquiring information from their suppliers, especially those of equipment and packaging. So
we have a lot of food concerns. When you talk about HACCP and food safety, everything related to food,
equipment and packaging must be of good food quality. Manufacturers often find it hard to receive these food
certificates from their suppliers; Some of them provide primary packaging, the bags for example; Then when
you ask for certificates proving that the packaging sack is admitted for food contact, it is often difficult to have
them. We also have all the production equipment that is presented, has good technology, the equipment is
correct for the processing; they manage to achieve technologically what needs to be done. But is the surface of
this equipment admitted for food contact? We do not know. At this level as well, it is difficult to prove to
listeners that surfaces in contact with food, especially in terms of equipment, are food grade. So I think

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equipment designers should make a little effort at this level and above all give consistently proof of the food
compliance of their equipment.
The Cotton and Cashew Council recently announced that Côte d’Ivoire is aiming to process more than 80% of
its local production of raw cashews; do you think that the labor is available and especially qualified to reach
this goal? Are the plants adequately equipped for this type of objective?
Having participated in SIETTA and also at WCC, I think it is an effort that will be made. As one speaker said
yesterday, we are not at the same level of labour capacity as countries like India or Vietnam that already have
experience. There will necessarily be a need for increased capacity in terms of human resources, but it is not
the resource that is lacking; I think that with proper training we should be able to achieve that level of
processing, we are able to do that.
With regard to ICAF, what are your future plans?
Our future projects in the very short term are mainly to be able to make a very good partnership with the
cashew sector in order to facilitate access to the market. As we say, we facilitate market access through
compliance with standards. Even if the market is available, only compliant products will be available to the
market. So the current challenge is to cover the cashew market in Côte d’Ivoire and help them. For future
projects, there is a need to extend the region; we are already present in countries of West Africa, at a small
level in Central Africa. We need to make this extension, and why not, to have partnerships with Vietnam and
India so that we can also benefit from the training so that we can pass it on to our compatriots in the region.

 

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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“According to me there is no better nut for snacking, for sweets, for food usage than cashews.Overall in those three
major consuming areas- North America, Europe and India – demand remains positive. Greater consumption in India is
because of wider spread, more affluence, more people interested in buying the products. In Europe, it’s about health, as
an alternative to add-in proteins instead of red meat. In US, it’s more on snacking, health benefits”
Mr Jim Fitzpatrick, Mentor of Ingredient Sourcing Solutions
An Exclusive Interview with Mr Jim Fitzpatrick, Mentor of Ingredient Sourcing Solutions,
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Please tell us your perspective on the Northern Hemisphere crop, its size, quality
and how’s the season looks like?
So far, we can say that the indications are good across West Africa, India and
Vietnam. Everything we are hearing is pointing towards an average to a good crop.
We are hopeful and optimistic at this stage, but cashews statistics can change at the
last moment and there is some concern with the timing of the crop in Vietnam. I
feel that we will have better crop than last year that will be a little above than that
of 2016. Again, it’s very early to make predictions.
The prices of RCN are continuously increasing. Do you foresee the same trend to continue even in the new
season? How is it going to impact the global cashew consumption?
I think the high prices of RCN had a shocker effect on the global processors and buyers of the kernel
throughout the sector. We saw prices rising sharply towards the end of the year that has been sustained so far
surprisingly. I feel there are some stocks unsold at this point of time. RCN market is very constrained. Prices
need to ease some more. We are looking for better crop from the Northern Hemisphere. Hence it must impact
on the price.
At the same time last year in Dubai, we were seeing things in a very similar manner. Tanzanian RCN were at
2200 USD. I don’t think it’s sustainable as there are unsold stocks at the destination in the East African
countries and we have West African crop coming up. Hence, I feel, prices are going to ease up a bit but am not
expecting a collapse in price. Markets will ease down due to harvest pressure. The prices might improve later
in the month of June and going forward.
Coming to kernels, we have seen prices rising sharply throughout last year. In the last quarter, it was dynamic
explosive price which on the basis of supply and demand at the moment was unwarranted. This has
pressurized processors which is not good for the market. Volatility generally is not good for business.
Consumption needs a little bit longer for higher prices to impact globally. If super markets, roasters and
processors are going to plan forward they are going to take a conservative approach. They aren’t going to
promote the product at this point of time. We are seeing kernel prices at the top end range. In 2016, we saw
all time high prices in RCN, cashew kernels and this don’t build confidence on buyers. So here we are at a time
where the consumers are very well disposed to order the product and we are offering him high prices,

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volatility, uncertainty of supply and that is going to have an effect on consumption if it continues for a longer
time. 2017 might be a year, where we can witness some impact in Europe. We have a lot of uncertainties
throughout the world. Added to that these high prices and the possibility of variability no one wants to commit
to buying kernels at 5 pounds, in market which could easily go back to 4 and thus it has an impact.
Now that the cashews aren’t the cheapest of all nuts, what’s its impact on the consumption of other nuts?
Do you see a shift in demand from cashews to other nuts?
First according to me there is no better nut for snacking, for sweets, for food usage than cashews. I don’t
believe almonds in terms of overall usage of these segments will ever come closer to cashews. In the longer
run, there is an upward pressure on the pricing for almonds as well that these prices can come closer together.
Now, it’s very easy for a consumer to reduce his cashew usage and increase his almonds as almonds have a lot
of scientifically proven health characteristics. Even cashews have the characteristic, but we don’t have the
proof. Almonds are much better marketed. 80% of almonds comes from California and brilliantly marketed.
Within the cashew sector, to avoid this insignificant threat, we do have to improve our game in terms of
marketing, research and promotion of our product.
What has been the consumption pattern of cashews in US and Europe?
Well, in recent years it’s been all good news. European consumption has started rising quickly and US started
showing dramatic growth in 2015 and a little bit of a correction in 2016, as a combination of uncertainty,
higher prices, high imports in 2015. Overall in those three major consuming areas- North America, Europe and
India – demand remains positive. Greater consumption in India is because of wider spread, more affluence,
more people interested in buying the products. In Europe, it’s about health, as an alternative to add-in
proteins instead of red meat. In US, it’s more on snacking, health benefits. I believe the conditions are good for
further growth. What can disrupt it, its volatility and price? We should also consider risks are involved in the
sector in terms of how the consumer sees us. We need to look at working conditions in factories and food
safety. These are areas where at any moment if something goes wrong, we can have a devastating impact.
According to me, for the cashew sector the only way is UP! But it’s up to us as how to manage the sector’s
growth and sustain it over a long term.
Could you please elaborate on the FSMA act?
All of us need to be more serious on quality, quality management and systematized quality management. Food
Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) comes at a time, when the United States is looking more and more like a
country that’s very careful about the products it imports and this is likely to be very seriously implemented. To
some extent, in the domestic market cashews are going to compete with the domestically produced almonds.
In terms of FSMA, processors now need to build relationship with their buyers, they need to work together to
improve quality, start food safety programmes concepts like ISO certification and other quarantine measures
in serious real way. There has been a number of certifications which is a photocopy of certificates and nothing
more. That’s not food safety that’s just playing games with the system. That will not work under this kind of
legislation. It’s been shown; companies providing better quality under the norms of food safety with
certifications are achieving better prices. At the moment, it will cost you more money on the product, but in
the future it’s a requirement. If you don’t have those certifications, you cannot export.

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Message for the delegates of WCC 2017
Great venue, great time, I see double the participants than the last time around in Dubai. Though we talk
together, we don’t work together as we couldn’t say we have an integrated sector. I think, your idea at
Cashewinfo is a forum for Vision 2025 and we can see a group of people from around the world coming
together to work on it. Though it might have conflicting views, opinions, different ways of looking at things, the
idea coming out for betterment is itself a major success. At the same time, it is so nice to see so many people
from different countries coming together having only one thing in common- “cashews”. This is the most
difficult product that somehow so many people make a living out of, at least, millions of those farmers around
the world who grow it.

 

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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“The Cashew sector can bring a little hope to all of them, and the new ACA executive committee will begin to advocate
with the governments of the producing countries in order to consider this sector as a stepping stone to reduce what we
observe every day”
Ms Kone Minata, CEO, SOTRIA-B, Burkina Faso
An Exclusive Interview with Ms Kone Minata, CEO, SOTRIA-B, Burkina Faso,
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Could please tell us more about your cashew processing plant as well as the various
products you process?
SOTRIA-B was established in 2003 in Banfora, Burkina Faso, and its activities began in
2006; since 2006, the factory has been processing cashew nuts into white kernels,
which we sell it to international markets. We went through several markets, starting
with the sub-region like Benin, Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire and we also evolved towards the
Maghreb, then the Middle East and we subsequently had a good market in the
European Union. Today we export kernel to the United States.
What are the measures initiated by the Government of Burkina Faso to improve the yield of raw nuts?
In Burkina Faso, we can say that things have changed a little bit, producers are accompanied by several NGOs
working in the field, projects and even government through the Ministry of Research to improve the yield at
the plantations level. The quality has evolved in Burkina in recent years with the KOR ranging from 46 to 49,
which was not the case few years ago; the moisture content is very low considering sunny weather in BurkinaFaso. Overall, the quality of Burkina Faso RCN has really improved in recent years.
The marketing year for 2017 will soon start and how it is going to unfold in Burkina Faso both in terms of
quality and quantity? Is the climatic conditions are favorable?
The 2017 campaign was somewhat premature, the first nuts were available since the month of January, a
great first. This can be very beneficial for Burkina Faso, because in January-February it is not yet hot, so this
could have a positive impact on the production, flowers will not dry and production will be good. Regarding
the measures taken by the government, this has evolved over the past two years; we work with the Ministry of
Agriculture, Trade and Industry, which accompany all the links, as well as in processing. The government has
made a commitment to accompany the players to regulate the cashew market in Burkina Faso during the
campaign. Steps are being taken; a partnership agreement between the actors under the umbrella of the interbranch allowed and will enable this year to secure supply at the level of the processing units. So we can say
that in Burkina Faso, things are changing fast.
Among the various measures that the government is taking, are there subsidies/incentives given to
processors according to the quantities of kernels they produce to encourage more processing?

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For now, we are not there. First of all, we want to allow the various processing units that are on the market to
be able to work, because over the last two years, we had very difficult situations. Units have closed; some have
worked at idle, putting thousands of women out of work. I think we are currently solving this problem. The
next step is to think about how to support these troubled units. Projects are already in place and in 2016 we
had decided to provide support to these units, through equipment and investments to reduce their suffering.
We hope that, as the actors are engaged, the government is also committed to being at the sides of the
players in order to resolve these difficulties and make this sector a leading commodities chain in Burkina.
What are your expectations for this third edition of the World Cashew Convention?
I am here on two counts, representing ACA and also for Burkina Faso. As for the ACA, which is the African and
continental cashew platform, we want to convey a strong message. We want to make it clear to all players in
the cashew world that ACA’s vision, which celebrated its 10th anniversary last year in a rather troubled cashew
environment, has changed, the approach will change, the approach towards actors and governments will
change; this is not a questioning, it is so that the ACA adapts to the new environment of cashew in the world.
There is a new committee in place.
The President, who is from Guinea Bissau, has asked me to convey his greetings to all the participants in this
conference and to invite all the players in the cashew world to the 11th conference of the ACA to be held in
Cotonou, Benin during September 2017. We would like to tell all exporters and traders of raw nuts that Africa
must reduce its poverty rate, Africa no longer wants to see its children and grandchildren die as they cross the
Mediterranean to look for a better future in Europe. The Cashew sector can bring a little hope to all of them,
and the new ACA executive committee will begin to advocate with the governments of the producing countries
in order to consider this sector as a stepping stone to reduce what we observe every day. ACA invites all those
who are in the export business of raw nuts throughout the world to come and invest in Africa. We know what
is happening on the ground and the Executive Committee has decided to approach all governments to
facilitate the work of partners who live far and invest in Africa so that these plants can function well and create
jobs and wealth in all countries.

 

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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“For cashew, our projection since 2014 has been steady and has been increasing. We dealt with 130,000 metric tonnes in
2014 and in 2016 it was 175000 metric tonnes. Now we intend to process and export cashew kernels which will further
strengthen our economy. Value addition can make an identifiable impact on the economy.We are also working on a plan
to promote cashews as a staple food and thus promote consumption of cashews by replacing groundnuts with that of
cashews”
Mr Olusegun Awolowo, CEO, Nigerian Export Promotion Council
An Exclusive Interview with Mr. Olusegun Awolowo, CEO, NEPC – Nigeria,
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
As the oil prices are down, what is the impact of the agricultural produce
on the Nigerian economy? What percentage does cashew constitute?
The oil crash is a wake-up call for Nigeria, as we now know the importance of
agriculture and the need to diversify our economy. The Government has
realized that it is time to step up on other products, which we could export
and earn foreign exchange. Nigeria had earned USD 70 billion in 2014, but it
reduced USD 40 billion in 2015, so that’s a loss of USD 30 billion and hence
you can see the effect of this on the economy, and hence we witnessed a
recession. To get out of recession, the most important thing is to look at the
supply of foreign exchange. We had to export other commodities to have better foreign exchange and that’s
what the government is focused more on complete diversification of our economy. To this effect, we have
formulated Nigerian Industrial Plan. As, we all know, no nation has achieved progress by just selling raw
materials, hence we need to Industrialize in order to take advantage of all the natural resources available in
Nigeria. Under the Nigerian Industrialization plan, we have identified 13 strategic crops which Nigeria should
embark on to replace Oil and cashew is one of them.
For cashew, our projection since 2014 has been steady and has been increasing. We dealt with 130,000 metric
tonnes in 2014 and in 2016 it was 175000 metric tonnes. Now we intend to process and export cashew kernels
which will further strengthen our economy. Value addition can make an identifiable impact on the economy.
So we are here at WCC to meet potential processors, who have a synergy with them and set up processing
plant in Nigeria. We need to increase our production further, export a part of RCN and process and add value
for the rest in Nigeria itself. We are also working on a plan to promote cashews as a staple food and thus
promote consumption of cashews by replacing groundnuts with that of cashews.
Could you please explain us about the Export Expansion Grant Program and how is it affecting the
exporters?
The Export Expansion Grant (EEG) is an incentive scheme introduced in order to drive exports. Since its
inception, it has shown a steady improvement from 600 million dollars to about 3 billion dollars. At the same
time, it has faced a lot of challenges and the government had to suspend it as it was unsustainable. Now, we
have worked it out well and launching it again in February-2017 with a new EEG, which will be post shipments
incentive. Earlier, it was export development fund, which was a pre-shipment incentive. So, we are now able to
help a lot SMEs and MMEs to focus and grow as big companies and to get out of recession and EEG is a part of
that.

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Mention the various initiatives taken by NEPC to improve the cashew sector?
On this, we are working with NCAN, Federal Ministry of Agriculture under the Agriculture Promotion Plan. We
are having new initiatives for cashews, and we are more interested on improving the quality of our nuts, to
maximise potential exploitation of yields, and you are already witnessing the growth in our yields. We are
hopeful of achieving 250,000 metric tonnes in the next two years with better quality, with maximum focus to
improve the moisture of nuts. When we start processing in large volumes, that’s where the actual joy begins
for the Nigerians.
Do you think Nigeria will be able to handle Foreign Direct Invest, what steps are to be taken to implement
the same?
We are looking more at the local investment. We have Nigerians with lots of money and other looking at as to
where to invest it and we are pointing out at Cashews. We had a new level of Businessmen who are interested
in cashews like exporters and processors. We have a lot of foreign investors in Nigeria who reach the farm
gates to buy the products from the farmers, but a lot of Nigerians are also interested in Business. We are
encouraging them just not by exporting the RCN but by setting up processing plants by which we can get more
money and they understand its importance.
List out the achievements of NEPC in 2016 and your goals for 2017
Mainly it increases the level of awareness on cashews, launching of zero oil plan, which indicates that Nigeria
can survive even without oil. We have invited 11 categories at A sector and 12 categories at B sector, which
shows Nigeria can make lot of progress if we follow it properly. For e.g., in category A, we have
petrochemicals, which is trading internationally. So, we are trying to build more refineries so we can export
more, first in West Africa and then to the rest of the world. I think, when our economy rebounds, it will bounce
back as an export led orientated economy.
What’s your view on WCC? What are your expectations for next year?
My expectation is to build up and grow better than last year. We have brought more private sector business in
and we are looking to engage with them and address to their partners with more B-B interactions and
particularly we are looking in to encourage more investments into processing in Nigeria and there are already
a lot of interest among investors.

 

 

Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“India is ranking high for its horticultural production over agricultural crops. This consistency of improvement in
horticulture area and production is because of the intensive investment support given by Indian Government under the
schemes like NHM. Now it has been renamed as MIDH. I am sure that we can certainly see a considerable change in
cashew industry as well as our mission of increasing the income of farmers going forward”
Dr D L Maheswar, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot-India
An Exclusive Interview with Dr D L Maheswar, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot-India,
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Cashew sector is expanding, what are the steps taken by the horticultural
universities to improve cashew sector as a whole?
The University of Horticultural Sciences-Bagalkot, with a selected group of
scientists has initiated a plan known as, ‘Natural Resources Inventory Program’,
under which we will be examining the geographical area and the soils of different
location basically to promote cashew on degraded soils and mined up soils, then
will explore the possibility and suitability of the soil on cashew production. Based
on seven set of parameters, we examine soil and classify its suitability to different
crop. This approach is unique, done by the University of Horticultural Sciences. I’m sure that this technology is
extended to different parts of the states and also globally. The investments by farmer and by the government
will prove to be fruitful. There will not be chances of senile plantations, low yielding varieties, which could be
addressed through this scientific approach.
With the ever-increasing demand for RCN, what are the steps taken by Indian government and other
institutions to increase the area under cashew?
Fortunately for the last three years, India is ranking high for its horticultural production over agricultural crops.
This consistency of improvement in horticulture area and production is because of the intensive investment
support given by Indian Government under the schemes like NHM. Now it has been renamed as MIDH. These
schemes that have contributed for the intense investment on these crops, that’s why horticultural overall
production has increased over the years. Similar type of interventions and mission modes has been applied to
other crop production. I am sure that we can certainly see a considerable change in cashew industry as well as
our mission of increasing the income of farmers going forward.
Please tell us about FPO and its benefits
Earlier the trend was towards the co-operative movements, but now the phase of growth of cooperative
movement is slow, hence a different form is given to these cooperatives known as Farmers Producers
Organisation (FPO) and it has been supported by various other programs. Through these programs, farmers
are being supported and strengthened at the grassroots level helping farmers come out as a group and thus
help them to make a federation, which will strengthen the bargaining capacity of farmers, improvement in
technological access to farmers, commercialisation as in primary processing and value addition can be decided
by the stakeholders. If this is being initiated and extended to crops like cashews, we can see consolidation at

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field level, involvement of farmers and other stakeholders and the understanding between the different
stakeholders improves.
What according to you are the challenges that the cashew sector is facing?
As far as India is concerned, it’s basically productivity. There are various new technologies available in different
institutions. By pooling up all these things and improvising a new model type of exposure to the farmers, there
lays a greater scope for countries like India to encourage the progressive intention of farmers. If this can be
attempted, we will certainly achieve success. The only thing is the stakeholders, who involve at the helm of
phase through policy formulation, mission mode and collaboration of different stakeholders. India can improve
a lot especially on the enhancement of the unit productivity. Secondly, we have to translate this concept to
non-traditional areas, where cashew is not being grown. If we, scientifically identify and tackle those areas
with the available interventions we can make a head way in promoting cashew sector.

 

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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“Singapore is a thriving trading hub with a complete ecosystem for the energy, agri-commodities and metals & minerals
trading clusters. We also work with different partners to ensure that the business infrastructure for the trading
community remains relevant and robust”
Ms Amreetha ENG, IE Singapore
An Exclusive Interview with Ms Amreetha ENG, IE Singapore,
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
E Briefly share with us, how does IE Singapore help one to connect with Singapore?
What are the services offered by IE Singapore?
International Enterprise (IE) Singapore is the government agency promoting international
trade and partnering Singapore companies in going global.
When it comes to trade, we attract global commodities traders to establish their global or
Asian home base in Singapore. Today, Singapore is a thriving trading hub with a complete
ecosystem for the energy, agri-commodities and metals & minerals trading clusters. We also work with
different partners to ensure that the business infrastructure for the trading community remains relevant and
robust.
Internationalisation will be critical as Singapore companies seek growth for the future. To help them capture
overseas opportunities, we leverage our global network in over 35 locations to share market knowledge,
identify project leads as well as connect them to business and government partners. We have different
assistance catered to the needs of companies at different stages of their internationalisation journey.
You were a distinguished guest at the inaugural function of WCC 2017. How was your experience? What
opportunities do you see that Singapore could offer to the global cashew industry?
I was honoured to be part of the WCC 2017. The event brought together many key stakeholders of the cashew
industry, from producers, processors, buyers to government agencies, who came together to network, and
discuss key developments in the cashew industry. We are delighted that Singapore was chosen as the location
for the third edition of WCC, and look forward to working together on future editions of the conference.
Singapore is today a leading agri-commodities trading hub. We have more than 130 leading international agricommodities firms that manage their global or regional businesses from Singapore. Singapore provides the
right mix of essential attributes for effective commodities trading. For example, we have established a strong
network of companies in Singapore that enables global traders to structure deals and collect timely market
intelligence. We also offer an extensive suite of services, from logistics and finance to legal services, to support
companies in their trading activities. In fact, anecdotally, I understand that 50% of raw cashew trades are
already financed from Singapore based financial institutions today. Cashew is one of the clusters that we are
looking to grow and we hope to see more traders coming here to conduct their trade and corporate activities.

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Singapore is a hub for value-added manufacturing. Do you see potential of Singapore becoming the R&D
centre for nut-based value-added products?
Besides conducting trading, financing, and shipping activities from Singapore, the cashew industry could
indeed consider Singapore as a location for R&D activities. Singapore has a robust intellectual property regime,
R&D friendly policies, and a strong talent pool of researchers from universities, institutes, government
agencies and industry.
What is your message to the global cashew industry from IE Singapore?
IE Singapore is looking to expand the cashew trading community in Singapore and we welcome further
conversations with WCC and the cashew community on ideas that would benefit the industry.

 

 

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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“The slogan of our group is “As they Grow, We Grow”. Production of raw cashews is growing day-by-day in Africa. The
future is bright because when we look at the production figures, we have lot of scope to improve processing in Africa
providing lot of room and opportunity for rural women to grow”
Mr. Mahesh Patel, Executive Director of ETG
An Exclusive Interview with Mr. Mahesh Patel, Executive Director of ETG,
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
ETG has been a recognized Global leader in its chosen segment. What is more
interesting is ETG has balanced the social prospective into its Business and had
demonstrated a new way of Business which is sustainable, socially responsible at
the same time profitable. You’re the visionary and architect of ETG. Please take us
through your experience.
Thank you for inviting to participate in this conference. It’s also our privilege to
ensure and see that it adds value. ETG started its journey from Kenya in 1967 and our
first aim was staple food for Africa which is predominantly maize and beans, which
was grown by smallholder farmers and making it self sufficient rather than importing from International
Companies. Our first focus was to ensure that the farmers are motivated to grow and we were successful in
making staple food self-sufficient in Africa in 2000. Thereafter, we saw that these small farmers can grow
something more. We focused on them, advising them and supporting them to grow pulses for Indian and
Middle East market, sesame for Japan, Turkey and Korea market as well as cashew nuts. These were the
objectives taken by us in order to empower them, create a value chain, and make them self-sufficient and
reliable. We slowly and gradually over a period of time, are able to procure 5.2 million tonnes out of that
nearly 80% comes from smallholder farmers. We still feel there is lot of potential from farmers as well as the
same land to make the yield to grow 5-10 folds. We are helping and encouraging them with semimechanization, improved seeds, right fertilizers, knowledge on pre-harvest loss, insuring them on improving
on it. The slogan of our group is “As they Grow, We Grow”. We feel that Africa today is the future where we
have 60% of the world’s arable land still available, which will help not only Africa, but also the rest of the
World.
Please let us know, in your opinion what the key trends are shaping this Cashew sector.
We need institution and Government participation in helping and educating the smallholder farmers. I see the
future is bright. From this conference, we take a lot back for empowering and increasing the production of
cashews in Africa.
You are in a host of commodities; you are a global leader in pulses sector, in sesame, in cereals and so on
and so forth, having seen so many sectors. What do you feel cashew sector can learn from other sector?
When we look at the present scenario, production of raw cashews is growing day-by-day in Africa. We look at
the problems in the Asian countries mainly India and Vietnam, we see raw cashew production trend going
down mainly due to agricultural land constraints. Shortfall can be compensated from Africa by supporting

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them, as there is a lot of scope for growth in Africa. We would like to see two-way trade, where people must
be encouraged and supported to trade with Africa.
On “Empowerment of Women”, we hear a lot of positive and encouraging stories that your cashew factories
have empowered women. What was the thought process behind? How was the journey?
As cashews are usually grown in the rural areas, we saw that there was quite a lot of unemployment in those
areas and the governments were worried as to how to find a solution for this problem. So we thought the
solution can be processing in the rural areas where these women are idle and they do require income. We
could improve economic status of these women. This process begun slowly and gradually developed, thus
encouraging rural woman to be self-dependent and self-sufficient. The future is bright because when we look
at the production figures, we have lot of scope to improve processing in Africa providing lot of room and
opportunity for rural women to grow.
We have a large gathering of over 500 delegates in WCC. What’s your message?
This conference has brought people together, with lot of knowledge to share with each other. We all have
certain soft holes, which we are able to understand through this conference and improve on it. Also, on the
future prospects, as the demand is increasing and I feel this demand can be fulfilled through Africa. It is an
opportunity when people from other countries especially Asia like India and Vietnam to invest in Africa and
help in improving the African industry further. As the African leaders are very encouraging and this is the right
opportunity to think and move ahead. WCC opens door for everyone to understand and collaborate.

 

 

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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“Cashew industry in India is likely to rebound; the more it goes down the more it reaches higher. CEPCPI is trying to
regain its position in the international market, as we are well aware that it was India which initiated industrialization of
cashews and brought cashew kernel as a commodity in the International market and now it’s the biggest consumer”
Dr R K Bhoodes, Vice-Chairman, CEPCI
An Exclusive Interview with Dr R K Bhoodes, Vice-Chairman, CEPCI,
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
How can India regain its position as the top exporter of cashew kernel?
CEPCPI is trying to regain its position in the international market, as we are well aware
that it was India which initiated industrialisation of cashews and brought cashew kernel
as a commodity in the International market and now it’s the biggest consumer. Even
though the exports have decreased, the processing has in fact had gone up indicating
that domestic market has picked up greater momentum. Hence, we have not been
able to cater to the international markets, but we should have kept the export markets
at the earlier levels and should have gone for more production so that we would be able to supply
international markets as well as cater to the domestic market. CEPCI has taken a lot of initiatives to improve
the exports but the biggest concern is maintaining parity between RCN prices and kernel price. Right now, the
domestic price for cashew kernels is much higher than prices in export market. Hence most of the exporters
have started supplying more to domestic markets. Earlier most of wholes and pieces were exported leaving
brokens to domestic market. Now, in domestic market we have demand for all grades leaving India lose its
premium position in the International market. Cashew industry in India is likely to rebound; the more it goes
down the more it reaches higher.
What according to you is the road map to attain sustainability of cashew production and also have an
overall growth in the cashew sector?
CEPCI has formulated a road map to attain sustainability of cashew Industry. We know that the domestic
production of RCN in India is not adequate. If we look at the history of cashew processing it can be
differentiated into 3 stages; in 1st stage the RCN production was in abundance and most of the RCN processed
in India was exported, in 2nd stage when production + imports and exports were at par. In 3rd stage is when
production+ imports are very less when compared to that of exports (less than 50%). India is producing about
700,000 tonnes of RCN and it processes 16,00,000 tonnes indicating shortage.
After mechanisation, it has provided a feel of comfort for the producing country to process in their own land
with encouragement from respective local governments, which in turn has promoted processing and
discouraged RCN exports to countries like India and Vietnam. If this continues and if we are not taking
collective measures to improve our production, maybe in another 5-6 years India will be forced to restrict its
processing only to the extent of what it produces. So we need to take proactive measures to improve our
cashew production and productivity.

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If we analyse the demand of cashew at the present rate, ten years down the line the production is estimated
to reach 20.25 lakh tonnes of cashew which creates a gap of 18,00,000 tonnes. We need to have a program to
improve cashew production, on that front CEPCI has formulated a road map and they have submitted it to the
concerned government agency and with the support of State and Central Governments and all other
concerned stakeholders of cashew Industry, proposes to implement the road map, which consists of 3 specific
areas of development. Starting from 2017, our first step will be encouraging farmers to have a proper preharvest management system, irrigating cashew field can improve the yield by 15-20%. Under this first stage we
have targeted around 10 lakh ha of cashews and we planning to extend that to over 80% of total area by next
3 years along with that we are looking at area expansion by 25% in next 3 years. Along with these three phase
of implementation, we are also planning to rejuvenate the old and senile plantations of India with high yielding
varieties, by doing all these maximum changes can be achieved in attaining sustainability in the Indian cashew
Industry.
Your views on WCC 2017
I appreciate your efforts in mobilising different stakeholders together, when I say there is a criticism that it
concentrates mainly on RCN trade, I must congratulate WCC for choosing the most neglected area of cashew
industry. All the very best for the next year, am hoping that next year it would be even more fruitful.

 

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Face to Face at World Cashew Convention 2017
“P Sundaran says Kollam being the capital of Cashew, we need to have a GI certification similar to that of spices, as
Kollam cashew is unique in flavor, colour and taste that need to be registered through a new trademark or logo which
can act like as a marketing tool.The government is now assisting cashew farmers, processors and exporters in the right
path (mechanization and automation) and am very confident that by 2025 India will emerge out as a self-sufficient
country “
P Sundaran, Chairman, CEPCI and S Kannan, Executive Director and Secretary, CEPCI
An Exclusive Interview with P Sundaran, Chairman, CEPCI and S Kannan, Executive Director and Secretary, CEPCI,
at the World Cashew Convention, 09-11 Feb, 2017, Singapore
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Narrate the initiatives taken by CEPCI to improve exports from India
The processing cost in India is very high when compared to other
countries like Vietnam. Vietnam has fully-mechanised cashew factories
due to which the cost is considerably reduced whereas in India we are
still depending on the traditional processing methods, which incur
higher expenditure, which in turn reduced our competitiveness in the
export market. Government of India is trying a lot to increase the production of RCN in India, which in turn
encourages exports of cashew kernels. Grant-in-aid scheme plan fund provides aid to the processors to buy
machineries to encourage mechanisation and automation, which has turned out to be successful.
Under Grant-in-Aid scheme, 88 exporters were selected. What were the benefits they derived out of this
plan scheme?
Grant-in-Aid is a one-time investment scheme from the Government of India which provides 1/3rd investment
cost for buying and installing machineries to encourage mechanisation and automation to the processors
which reduces their processing cost. We are expecting more support from the Government to the cashew
industry as it is a traditional and labour intensive industry with its workers who are mostly from the weaker
sections of the society.
Mr. Kannan, you were the marketing director of the Spice Board of India earlier. What according to you that
the cashew industry can learn from spices sector?
Largely there is couple of areas that the cashew industry can learn from the spices industry. First being the
backward integration in some of the spices like chilies, turmeric etc. The exporters are working backward with
the farmers to ensure absolute quality right from the farm gate to finished product. Similarly, as new areas are
coming up under cashew cultivation the exporters can have a backward integration on quality, processing,
high yielding varieties, disease resistance, residue free and such things. Second one is that, Kollam being the
capital of Cashew, we need to have a GI certification similar to that of spices, as Kollam cashew is unique in
flavor, colour and taste that need to be registered through a new trademark or logo which can act like as a
marketing tool. The third one is the quality certifications; we have an excellent quality evaluation lab which
can assure the quality performance under mandatory testing and mandatory certifications, which can ensure
whatever is exported, are of best assured quality. So I feel these three areas can definitely impact on the
cashew industry, recently I have noticed that because of the food safety aspects which is becoming more

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stringent and strict in the consuming countries Indian cashew industry needs to get tuned to meet those
requirements. I think this is a very good lead as the government is also supporting and encouraging the food
safety aspects by subsidizing 1/3rd of the cost of such efforts which will go a long way in achieving higher
export growth. The production growth which we anticipate for the next five years will have a commendable
impact leading to self-sufficiency of cashews leading us to emerge as the leading exporter of cashew kernels.
What are the challenges faced by exporters and processors today in India?
Sundaran: Presently the price of cashew kernels in domestic market is very high. India has emerged as the
biggest consumer of the world. As domestic market is fetching better price than that of export market,
processors are concentrating more on the Indian market. As result, export is coming down. Government has
realized the importance of exports and is encouraging RCN production with India having rich diversity of land
resources and enormous number of high yielding varieties and has started providing more subsidies. In that
front CEPCI has submitted a road map to improve the sustainability of cashew industry. The government is
now assisting farmers, processors and exporters in the right path (mechanization and automation) and am
very confident that by 2025 India will emerge out as a self-sufficient country
Please tell us about the CEPCI lab and its contribution
Kannan: CEPCI lab was established to ensure quality of cashew and cashew products. Now the facility of lab
has been extended to other food products -water, spices, fruits and vegetables. That’s why the Government of
India and Kerala has renamed the CEPCI lab as a research institute, that includes more of research activities
not only in product but also in market research, which will further provide a better boost for the industry and
also a chance for commodities and markets to develop and grow. We are also training people on testing,
examining the quality as well as ensuring food safety. These kinds of training program have a big impact over a
period of time. We can have an absolutely quality control at every stage and assure that the Indian Cashews
are the safest for consumption.
What are the views on WCC and what are your expectations for next year?
Sundaran: You have done a good job, for the last three years. You have been assembling the cashew fraternity
together, where we can easily exchange our ideas and views and discuss on the future aspects of the cashew
industry.
Kannan: I could see from the interaction inside and outside the conference hall, WCC is a massive success. I
think this has been the biggest gathering of the WCC also, if you take this forward to the consuming market it
will have an even better impact. It’s a very good initiative taken up by Foretell Business Solutions and I think
WCC has even better days in future.