Cashew prices have firmed by 4-5% over the last month as low availability of raw

cashew nuts (RCN) begins to affect the kernel market. Processors in Vietnam have been

eagerly awaiting fresh imports of RCN from Tanzania and Mozambique, as the southern

African crops have recently begun harvesting. Although a combination of delays and

temporary export bans have squeezed the market on supply out of these origins. Prices

will likely remain firm up until new crop in Vietnam, especially given China is still yet to

buy its full requirements for the Luna new year celebrations. Only a slow down in US and

European demand will help to ease prices, which hasn’t eventuated as yet.