The Association of Cashew Processors, Ghana (ACPG), has set a target to process 85,000 metric tons of cashew annually by 2026.

This initiative is expected to create over a thousand jobs and boost farmers’ incomes within the global cashew industry.

The target was announced following an industrial tour of cashew processing factories in Ghana’s middle belt, covering Techiman, Sunyani, and surrounding areas.

The visit provided an opportunity to engage processors, workers, and community leaders on the state of the industry.

Despite its potential, the cashew sector continues to face significant challenges. Processors highlighted issues such as inconsistent supply of raw cashew nuts (RCN) due to weak farmer–processor linkages, price volatility, high processing costs, limited access to affordable financing, competition from raw nut exports, low adoption of modern processing technologies, costly international certification requirements, and weak policy enforcement.

“These hurdles make it difficult for processors to operate at full capacity and compete globally,” the Association noted.

Cashew production declines by 30%

The President of ACPG, António Manuel Caramelo Raposo, reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to tackling these bottlenecks through its newly developed Cashew Framework.

The plan outlines interventions to secure raw materials, raise processing standards, and expand both domestic and international markets.

“This tour has given us firsthand insight into the pressing needs of our members. ACPG will continue to work with government, farmers, and development partners to ensure processors receive the support required to increase capacity and sustain jobs in Ghana,” he added.

SP/MA

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