CAC News
The cashew market across West Africa is experiencing growing uncertainty as climatic challenges and geopolitical factors weigh on production and trade. Disappointing harvests in several key producing countries, combined with rising global oil prices exceeding $100 per barrel, are raising concerns over future demand and market stability.
Mixed Harvests and Price Trends Across Key Producers
In Côte d’Ivoire, the world’s leading cashew producer, a poor harvest has been confirmed, prompting local processors to call for delays in exports to secure supply. Farm-gate prices, however, have remained relatively stable, ranging between 350 and 400 FCFA per kilogram.
Nigeria has taken a different approach, with prices adjusted downward to stimulate trading activity. Current farm-gate prices range from 1,350 to 1,480 naira per kilogram (approximately $0.97 to $1.06).
In Togo, strong speculative activity has pushed prices upward to between 580 and 630 FCFA per kilogram, despite underlying risks in the international market. Meanwhile, Ghana has entered its second harvest phase, with a modest recovery in demand keeping farm-gate prices stable at 10 to 12 cedis per kilogram ($0.93 to $1.11).
Burkina Faso’s market has slowed due to limited financing for local processors, although prices remain steady at 400 to 450 FCFA per kilogram. In contrast, Mali is seeing a more active harvest season, with farm-gate prices rising between 275 and 400 FCFA per kilogram.
Guinea’s cashew sector remains dynamic, supported by strong interest from international buyers. Prices there range widely from 4,000 to 6,500 Guinean francs per kilogram. In Guinea-Bissau, the 2026 cashew campaign officially began on March 11, with authorities setting a reference price of 410 FCFA per kilogram.
Cautious Outlook Amid Global Pressures
Market participants are adopting a cautious stance in the short term, particularly as rising energy costs contribute to inflation and potentially dampen global consumption. Buyers are increasingly selective, while producers are being encouraged to stagger sales once official reference prices are established, helping to manage risk in a volatile market environment.
As the season progresses, the interplay between local production conditions and global economic pressures will continue to shape the trajectory of West Africa’s vital cashew industry.
