Trade Minister Vows Action to Keep Cashew Processors Competitive

Ghana’s Trade Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare has promised new measures to support cashew processors after Usibras, the country’s largest processor, warned it may shift operations to Côte d’Ivoire due to rising costs.

At a meeting, Ofosu-Adjare said the government will work with the Tree Crop Development Agency to “strengthen and regulate the cashew production line to benefit processors and farmers.” She reiterated the government’s commitment to value addition and to creating a “conducive environment” for investors in the sector.

Usibras, which has been a cornerstone of Ghana’s processing industry, cited escalating operating costs and regulatory gaps as reasons it is considering relocation. Côte d’Ivoire, a competitive cashew producer, has introduced tax breaks and processing incentives to expand its lead in the global market.

“The government is determined to ensure businesses remain competitive globally,” Ofosu-Adjare said.

Following the discussions, Usibras’ General Manager and President of the Cashew Processors Association, Antonio Camamelo, expressed confidence in the minister’s ability to address their concerns.

Relatively, the Association of Cashew Processors, Ghana, in early September, set a target of handling 85,000 metric tons annually by 2026, a move expected to create thousands of jobs and increase farmer incomes. Cashew is also one of six tree crops, along with coconut, oil palm, rubber, mango, and shea, prioritized under Ghana’s $12 billion export diversification strategy by 2030.

Cashew exports generated about $350 million in non-traditional export earnings in 2024, according to trade data. But industry players warn that without policy support to ease costs and ensure raw nut supply, Ghana risks losing investment and jobs to regional rivals.

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