During the weekly platform of the Government Information and Communication Center (CICG) called "All About" on June 4, 2024, in Abidjan, Dr. Adama Coulibaly, Director General of the Cotton and Cashew Council, indicated that the local processing rate of cashew nuts increased from 6.22% in 2016 to 21% of national production in 2023.

According to him, Côte d'Ivoire processed 265,863 tonnes of raw cashew nuts in 2023 compared to 40,383 tonnes in 2016. "Today, the quantity purchased by processors has already exceeded 300,000 tonnes," he assured.

These results have propelled Côte d'Ivoire to the rank of the second-largest exporter of cashew kernels and the third-largest processor in the world. The prospects for processing are positive and indicate a certain dynamism. "Our ambition is to process 50% of the production by 2027," he asserted.

Approximately thirty industrial units, with an installed capacity of 350,000 tonnes, drive this sector with strong government support, which has implemented a series of incentive measures. These factories have generated over 15,000 direct jobs, 70% of which are held by women.

For marketing this year, 193 companies are authorized for export, including 119 cooperatives and 74 commercial companies. For farm-gate purchases, 1,570 buyers are authorized, including 1,288 cooperatives.