How Agri-processing Adds Value:
Increased Export Earnings: Processed cashew kernels higher prices than raw cashew nuts. By processing locally, Côte d’Ivoire can export a more refined product, leading to a substantial increase in export revenue per tonne of cashew produced.
Job Creation: Cashew processing is labor-intensive. Establishing and operating processing plants creates thousands of direct and indirect jobs across the value chain, from factory workers. For instance, over 15,000 direct jobs were created with the inauguration of thirty new processing plants in 2024.
Technological Transfer and Skill Development: Operating modern processing facilities requires new technologies and skilled labor. This drives knowledge transfer, improves technical capabilities within the country, and enhances the overall human capital. Côte d’Ivoire is even moving towards local assembly of cashew processing equipment through partnerships with companies like Vietnam’s Cashew Machines Vietnam Company Limited (CMV).
By-product Utilization: Cashew processing generates significant by-products, notably the cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) and cashew shells. CNSL has industrial applications Utilizing these by-products further adds value and contributes to a more sustainable.
Improved Quality and Standards: Local processing allows for better quality control, ensuring that the exported kernels meet stringent international food safety and quality standards, which can open doors to more lucrative markets.