CAC News
Phnom Penh, Cambodia, September 6, 2026 — The global cashew market is showing mixed developments, with raw cashew nut (RCN) prices in Vietnam firming slightly while kernel demand remains uneven across major markets, according to the latest Cashew Week market update.
In Vietnam, buyers remained cautious as kernel prices failed to improve. W320 offers were reported at US$3.05–3.35 per pound, while US bids stood at US$3.00–3.03 per pound. Tight processor margins continued to limit buying interest from sellers.
China remained Vietnam’s largest market for cashew kernels during the first seven months of the year, supported by Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) tariff advantages. Meanwhile, US shipments rose 9% and Canadian shipments surged nearly 52%, while European demand remained mixed.
In Tanzania, mostly dry weather with occasional rainfall has supported fruit setting. The Cashew Board of Tanzania (CBT) is targeting a crop above 750,000 metric tonnes, although trade estimates currently range from 600,000–625,000 tonnes or higher. The season is expected to begin in late October or early November.
India’s kernel market continues to benefit from strong festival demand, particularly for premium grades. Limited finished-kernel availability and continued enquiries are expected to keep prices steady, although demand could temporarily ease after mid-September.
Meanwhile, Japan’s July cashew kernel imports fell 38% year-on-year to 916 tonnes. Cumulative January-July imports declined 5.6% to 7,232 tonnes, with Vietnam remaining Japan’s leading supplier.
