Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), in collaboration with India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), is actively promoting the ‘Indian Cashew’ brand in major international trade fairs, with a renewed focus on value-added exports.
The initiative aims to shift exports towards higher value segments such as roasted, salted, flavored and other processed cashew products, improve export realization and strengthen India’s premium position in the global market.
In an interactive session titled “Cashew and Value Added Products Export Promotion Meeting” held in Kollam, APEDA officials apprised the exporters about the market access opportunities arising from the recently concluded Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). Zero-duty access is now available under trade agreements with the UK, Australia, Oman, the EFTA countries—Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein—and the EU. The framework of the interim trade agreement with the US has also been finalized.
These agreements offer strategic diversification beyond traditional export destinations, officials said.
commitment on infra
The objective of the high level consultation meeting was to prepare a sustainable roadmap for the development of cashew production, processing and exports from Kerala with emphasis on value addition.
APEDA officials reiterated their commitment to support infrastructure development, post-harvest management, technological modernization and global market expansion to ensure that the Indian cashew industry remains a major force in the international premium nut segment.
Earlier in his inaugural address, Agricultural Production Commissioner and Principal Secretary, Kerala Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department, B. Ashok highlighted the initiatives of the state government to expand cashew cultivation and strengthen processing infrastructure. He stressed that mechanization and modernization of processing units is necessary to maintain global competitiveness.
Around 75 participants including exporters, processing unit owners and cashew growers participated in the programme.
Following the inclusion of cashew products under the APEDA schedule in 2023, the authority has intensified efforts to strengthen India’s global presence in the sector. India’s share in global cashew production is about 19 percent, ranking third worldwide after Côte d’Ivoire and Cambodia.
During FY 2024-25, India’s total cashew production was 802,000 tonnes, led by Maharashtra (23.98%), Andhra Pradesh (17.43%) and Odisha (16.43%). Kerala is at sixth position, contributing 9.31 percent to the national production.
Published February 9, 2026
