Edible Nuts Benin and Côte d'Ivoire

Together with Conseil Coton Anacarde (CCA), Group of Industrial Cashew processors (GIC-CI) and Council for National Exports (CNE), CBI carried out the Côte d'Ivoire (DI) and Benin edible nuts project. CBI's activities focused on helping processors reach the European market. Creating business plans and improving knowledge and skills about processing were the main focuses. It was also our goal to achieve certification, build networks and establish a strong Export Enabling Environment (EEE). The project piloted two other intervention areas: cashew nut shell oil as a by-product and helping producers access financing. 

A total of 9 companies took part in this export coaching project. CBI also worked with three local institutional partners.

Results

Research from Business Export Coaching (BEC) shows us the following data:

• A slight increase in kernel sales, reaching a €53 million turnover;
• The share of kernel sales exported to the EU increased from 32% to 41% compared to the start of the project (based on the certified results of 2020);
• Hight export value: Export revenues more than doubled from €25 million in 2020 to €53 million by 2023;
• More jobs: The number of jobs grew from 2,923 jobs in 2020 to 5,184 jobs in 2023. 

These numbers show us that the sector is expanding and has a good impact on jobs and economic stability.

The results achieved under the Export Enabling Environment (EEE) component include the strengthening of the cashew processors’ association, Groupement des Industriels du Cajou de Côte d'Ivoire (GIC-CI). Staff were hired, the association now has 27 members representing 80% of the sector in Côte d’Ivoire, offering relevant services to its members (e.g., government lobbying, information services, and acting as a contact point for international buyers), and funding was secured.

In collaboration with the Cashew Council Conseil du coton et de l'anacarde (CCA), advisory support on niche market certification and CSR activities was developed. Processors participated in CSR workshops organized by the Council, where they learned about CSR requirements in cashew processing and how to prepare for certification—an important step when engaging potential EU buyers.

A partnership with IPD in setting up the CNE website was achieved.                             

Contact companies from this project

Are you a European importer interested in cashew kernels from companies in Cote d'Ivoire and Benin? Contact CBI to get more information or to meet with the suppliers from this project.