The Association of Cashew Processors, Ghana (ACPG), has set its sights on processing 85,000 metric tons of cashew every year by 2026 — a milestone expected to create thousands of jobs, improve farmer earnings, and strengthen Ghana’s position in the global cashew market.
The target was announced after a working tour by the ACPG President of cashew processing facilities in the Middle Belt, including Techiman, Sunyani, and nearby areas. The visit offered the chance to interact with processors, employees, and community leaders on the current state of the industry.
Although the cashew sector holds great promise, it continues to face significant hurdles. Processors outlined key concerns such as unreliable access to raw cashew nuts (RCN) due to weak farmer–processor connections, unstable prices, high operational costs, limited access to affordable credit, competition from raw nut exports, slow uptake of modern technology, expensive certification requirements for international markets, and poor enforcement of policies.
“These challenges make it extremely difficult for processors to run at full capacity and compete effectively on the global stage,” the Association noted.
During the tour, the ACPG President restated the Association’s determination to overcome these challenges through its newly introduced Cashew Framework. The roadmap sets out measures to secure consistent raw material supply, enhance processing standards, and broaden both local and foreign markets.
“This engagement has given us direct insight into the urgent needs of our members. ACPG will continue collaborating with government, farmers, and development partners to ensure processors receive the necessary backing to scale up capacity and safeguard jobs in Ghana,” the President stressed.
The Association is confident that hitting the 85,000-ton annual target by 2026 will not only create thousands of direct and indirect jobs but also boost farmer livelihoods and advance Ghana’s long-term vision of becoming a global leader in value-added cashew processing.
