Nigeria is one of the largest producers of cashew nuts in Africa and ranks among the top cashew-exporting countries globally. The country’s climate and fertile soil provide favorable conditions for cashew cultivation, particularly in states like Kogi, Kwara, Oyo, Enugu, and Abia. Over the past decade, the cashew sector has gained traction as a key contributor to Nigeria’s non-oil export earnings.
The growing global demand for healthy snacks and plant-based products has placed Nigerian cashew nuts in high regard due to their quality and taste. Both raw cashew nuts (RCNs) and processed kernels are exported to markets in Asia, Europe, and North America. As the world pivots toward more sustainable and diversified supply chains, Nigerian cashew continues to gain relevance on the international stage.
Understanding the Cashew Value Chain
A good grasp of the cashew value chain is essential for any exporter looking to succeed in the industry. The value chain involves several stages, each critical to maintaining product quality and market competitiveness.
- Harvesting: Cashew nuts are harvested between February and May, depending on the region. They are collected by hand and separated from the apple.
- Drying and Curing: Freshly harvested nuts are sun-dried to reduce moisture content and prevent mold.
- Sorting and Grading: Once dried, nuts are sorted by size and quality. Proper grading enhances the value and marketability of the nuts.
- Storage and Packaging: Cashew nuts must be stored in cool, dry places in well-sealed jute bags to maintain freshness and quality before export.
- Market Destinations: Nigerian cashew nuts are exported both raw and processed, with Vietnam and India often purchasing raw nuts for further processing, while Europe and North America prefer ready-to-consume kernels.
Exporters must understand how each link in the chain affects quality, pricing, and buyer satisfaction.
Export Cashew Nuts with Omas Commodities
When it comes to navigating the cashew export landscape in Nigeria, Omas Commodities stands out as a reliable and experienced partner. With years of expertise in agro-commodity exportation, we offer comprehensive support services that make cashew exporting smoother and more profitable for both new and established exporters.
Key Services We Provide:
- Sourcing: We work directly with trusted farmers and suppliers across Nigeria’s major cashew-producing states to ensure you get premium-grade nuts at competitive prices.
- Warehousing: Our modern storage facilities are equipped to preserve cashew quality before shipping, preventing spoilage and contamination.
- Quality Assurance: We adhere to international grading and sorting standards, ensuring all nuts meet buyer specifications for moisture content, size, and cleanliness.
- Export Documentation & Compliance: At Omas, we handle all necessary paperwork, from NEPC registration to phytosanitary certificates, so you can focus on your business.
- Freight & Logistics: From inland transportation to container loading and shipping, we manage logistics seamlessly to deliver your goods to international markets on time.
Interested in working with us? We’re just a call or message away. Reach out for inquiries, quotes, or further information. We’re always ready to assist.
Head Office
29, Ondo Road, Beside Onward House, Akure, Ondo State
Branch Office
135, Ojota Road, Opa Quarters, Idanre, Ondo State
Contact
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +234 808 000 0224
Choosing Omas Commodities means choosing excellence, transparency, and a commitment to growing Nigeria’s cocoa industry. We simplify the export process and help you build a solid reputation with global buyers.
How to Source High-Quality Cashew Nuts in Nigeria
The foundation of a successful cashew export business lies in sourcing top-quality nuts. Nigeria’s major cashew-producing states include Kogi, Kwara, Enugu, Oyo, Ogun, Abia, and Edo. These regions have fertile land and ideal climate conditions, resulting in high yields and good nut quality.
There are two primary ways to source cashew nuts:
- Buying Directly from Farmers or Local Aggregators: This offers better prices and allows for quality control from the start. Many exporters build relationships with trusted farmer cooperatives to secure consistent supply.
- Purchasing from Open Markets or Warehouses: This is a faster method but carries a higher risk of contamination or poor-quality nuts.
To ensure quality:
- Inspect for mold, moisture, and foreign matter.
- Choose nuts that are sun-dried with a low moisture content (ideally below 10%).
- Ensure the nuts are free of broken shells, pests, or oil contamination.
Sourcing high-grade nuts consistently not only increases your export value but also earns repeat buyers in global markets.
Processing and Packaging for Export Readiness
Proper processing and packaging are vital for maintaining the value of cashew nuts throughout the supply chain. Even if you’re exporting raw nuts, certain steps must be followed:
- Sorting: Nuts are graded by size, weight, and moisture level.
- Shelling (optional for kernel exporters): Carefully removing the shell without damaging the kernel.
- Drying: Final drying ensures long shelf life and compliance with moisture standards.
- Bagging: Cashew nuts should be packed in clean, dry, and well-ventilated jute bags (usually 80 kg per bag). Each bag must be properly labeled with export details.
Processed cashew kernels are often vacuum-sealed in foil-lined cartons or plastic pouches to retain freshness. Good packaging prevents spoilage, reduces damage during transport, and aligns with buyer expectations. Investing in proper handling reduces rejection rates at destination ports and increases profitability.
Top International Markets for Nigerian Cashew Nuts
Nigeria exports cashew nuts to multiple regions around the world, with demand growing steadily. Key markets include:
- Vietnam and India: These two countries dominate global cashew processing. They import large volumes of raw cashew nuts from Nigeria, process them, and re-export the kernels worldwide.
- United Arab Emirates: A rising market for both raw and processed nuts, especially for re-export purposes.
- Europe: Countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK import processed kernels due to high food quality standards and demand for healthy snacks.
- North America: The United States and Canada import premium-grade cashew kernels used in food manufacturing and retail.
Understanding buyer preferences, tariffs, and sanitary standards in each market helps exporters position their products for maximum profitability.
Conclusion
Cashew exportation in Nigeria is not just a profitable venture but a key contributor to the nation’s non-oil revenue and a gateway to global agribusiness. By understanding the value chain, staying compliant, investing in quality, and working with reliable partners like Omas Commodities, you can build a lasting and reputable export business.
With increasing global demand and Nigeria’s strategic position in the cashew trade, now is the perfect time to explore the opportunities in this booming sector.