Cashew nut export surged to $398.135m in Q1 2025 — NEPC

… as Council launches Directory of Cashew processors

…. says Nigeria ranked 4th position in global cashew production

The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) on Tuesday disclosed that cashew nuts contributed to the country’s non-oil export surge in the first quarter (Q1) of 2025 with an export value of US$398.135 million, representing an 81.15% increase compared to US$219.780 million in the first half of 2024.

Speaking at the official launch of the Directory of Cashew processors in Abuja, the Executive Director of NEPC, Nonye Ayeni said, “Today’s event is more than a ceremonial gathering; it is a strategic milestone in our collective journey to reposition cashew as a key contributor to Nigeria’s non-oil export portfolio.

‘This launch is taking place at a time of remarkable performance and rising global relevance for Nigeria’s cashew industry.

In the year 2024, Cashew Nuts ranked 4th among 243 distinct products exported from Nigeria, underscoring its critical role in the nation’s non-oil export landscape.

“Even more impressive, in the first half of 2025 alone, cashew nut exports surged to a value of US$398.135 million, representing an 81.15% increase compared to US$219.780 million in the first half of 2024. As of mid-2025, cashew nuts have become Nigeria’s number three leading export product, out of 234 products recorded so far.”

She noted that simultaneously, “cashew kernels have also demonstrated robust performance, ranking 18th in 2024 and rising to 14th in the first half of 2025. Export values for kernels grew by 40.29%, reaching US$26.851 million for half year 2025, a testament to the growing demand for value-added cashew products.

“Notably, Nigeria currently ranks 4th globally in cashew nut production, reflecting the immense capacity we hold as a nation to lead in this dynamic industry. These figures are not just statistics; they are a powerful signal that the time to invest, innovate, and scale the cashew value chain is now.

“Over the last decade, the global cashew industry has witnessed robust growth, fueled by rising demand for cashew nuts and kernels in health-conscious markets across Europe, North America, and Asia. Nigeria, blessed with vast arable land and enterprising farmers, is well-positioned to become a dominant player in this dynamic global value chain, yet we have only scratched the surface.

“However, we must also contend with pressing challenges: volatile global prices, the growing impact of climate change, quality control issues, and limited access to finance and structured markets, especially for our smallholder farmers. These barriers require not just acknowledgement but deliberate, targeted action,” the ED stated.

Ayeni said at NEPC, “We are committed to turning these challenges into catalysts for innovation. We recognise that real progress demands more than aspiration. It demands collaboration, investment, and strategic planning.

“It demands that we strengthen our institutional frameworks, support agribusinesses with policy and technical expertise, and ensure our farmers and processors have the tools to thrive competitively and sustainably.

“That is why today’s launch of the Cashew Processors Directory, produced in collaboration with our esteemed partners at GIZ is both timely and transformational.

“This directory is not merely a document; it is a comprehensive industry compass. It offers valuable insights into market trends, production hubs, and key players within Nigeria’s cashew ecosystem.

“As we officially unveil this directory, I urge all stakeholders, farmers, processors, exporters, investors, and policymakers alike to make full use of this resource. Let it inform your strategies, sharpen your decisions, and inspire new levels of collaboration.

“Together, we must embrace this opportunity to position Nigeria not just as a raw cashew exporter, but as a leading hub for premium, value-added cashew products globally,” she stated .

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