CAC News

Kampong Thom Province, February 7 — The Cashew Nut Association of Cambodia (CAC) has raised concerns over unfavorable weather conditions that are affecting cashew production during the 2026 harvest season, warning of potential yield losses if conditions persist.

According to the CAC, late-season storms in November 2025 disrupted the normal growth cycle of cashew trees by delaying the emergence of new shoots. This was followed by another storm in early January 2026, which further postponed the flowering stage. Most recently, a second storm has caused cashew trees across the country to delay fruit-setting, a critical phase for production.

Farmers are now facing prolonged overcast skies and localized rainfall, conditions that are unsuitable for cashew cultivation. Cashew trees typically require heat and clear skies to thrive, particularly during the dry season. However, three consecutive months of gloomy weather have created an environment conducive to plant diseases and pest infestations.

As a result, farmers have been forced to increase spending on crop maintenance and pest control, significantly reducing their profit margins.

Mr. Silot Uon, President of the Cashew Nut Association of Cambodia, warned that continued rainfall during the dry season—especially during the peak production period—could lead to a decline in overall cashew yields this year. He emphasized the growing risks posed by climate variability to the agricultural sector.

In response, the CAC has urged farmers and relevant stakeholders to proactively explore adaptive strategies to cope with the challenges brought about by climate change and to safeguard the sustainability of Cambodia’s cashew industry.