Are cashew nuts Mozambique’s hidden commodity?

Cashew nuts have emerged as a promising commodity in the global market in recent years. With its high nutritional value and versatility, cashew nuts have become a popular snack and ingredient in various cuisines worldwide. However, what many may not realise is that Africa is the largest producer of cashew nuts. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the global trade of cashew nuts was valued at USD 5.5 billion in 2019, with African countries accounting for 56% of the total production. For those following this market and paying attention to African countries, Mozambique stands out as a promising player. In 2020, Mozambique produced approximately 160,000 tons of cashew nuts, making it the fourth-largest producer in Africa after Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and Guinea-Bissau. The country’s production capacity remains largely untapped, with vast areas of land available for cultivation. This presents a significant opportunity for Mozambique to increase ...