Cashew Campaign 2025: Niakara Producers Celebrate Price Increase
Niakara – The 2025 raw cashew nut marketing campaign has seen a rise in farm-gate prices, allowing producers in Niakara (North-Central, Hambol region) to gain better value for their production.
According to several farmers interviewed by AIP on Sunday, March 30, and Monday, March 31, 2025, buyers are adhering to the government-set minimum farm-gate price of 425 FCFA/kg, an increase of 150 FCFA (+54%) compared to the previous year. Some producers have even sold their harvests at higher prices. Thibault Kélo, a cooperative leader in Niakara, sold his production at 450 FCFA/kg, while Alfonse Touré, a producer in Pêkaha, reported selling at 480 FCFA/kg, reflecting the strong demand for this year’s campaign.
This price increase aims to stabilize the cashew sector and improve farmers' incomes. The Minister of State, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food Production, Kobenan Kouassi Adjoumani, announced this measure in January 2025 as part of efforts to revitalize the industry.
A Booming Cashew Sector
The cashew sector is a vital component of the Ivorian economy, supporting thousands of farmers across the country. With improved pricing mechanisms, government initiatives, and growing international demand, stakeholders remain optimistic about the industry's future. The higher farm-gate prices offer financial relief to smallholder farmers, enabling them to reinvest in their farms, purchase better equipment, and improve living conditions.
Local cooperatives and trade unions have welcomed the price adjustment, emphasizing the importance of transparent transactions and fair trade practices to ensure sustainable growth. Farmers have also called for continued government support to expand processing facilities and add value to cashew products before export.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite the positive outlook, some challenges remain. Farmers cite concerns over transportation costs, access to quality seedlings, and unpredictable weather patterns that could impact production. Experts recommend further investment in modern agricultural techniques, irrigation systems, and infrastructure development to sustain the sector's momentum.
The government has pledged to strengthen the cashew supply chain by enhancing storage facilities, promoting local processing industries, and facilitating access to financing for smallholder farmers. This commitment is expected to increase employment opportunities and boost economic growth in cashew-producing regions like Niakara.
A Promising Season Ahead
As the 2025 cashew campaign progresses, producers remain hopeful that the price increase will be sustained throughout the season. With the right policies and industry support, the Ivorian cashew sector is set to maintain its position as one of the top global exporters while ensuring better returns for its hardworking farmers.
The success of this year's campaign reinforces the growing importance of cashew production in West Africa and highlights the need for continuous investment in the agricultural sector. Farmers, traders, and government officials alike are optimistic that the 2025 season will be one of the most profitable in recent years.
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