A Case Study of Cashew Industry in Karnataka

Abstract

Purpose: In the Indian food processing sector, the cashew nut processing industry plays a critical role. Often, the cashew is considered as ‘both a poor person’s crop and a rich person’s meal.’ From the cultivators, traders, wholesalers, processors to supermarkets and retailers, the cashew processing sector is a vital source of income. Cashew processing is a labour intensive sector that has always employed a significant number of rural women. The purpose of this study is to gain an in-depth understanding of the Cashew Processing Sector, its position in the world market, issues it is confronting and future prospects. While doing so, the present study attempts to examine the profile of the Indian Cashew Industry, including cashew processing and international trade. The quality, flavour and appearance of the Indian cashew kernels are highly respected in other nations and are consumed in more than 60 countries worldwide. Unfortunately, it was found that cashew production in India has been fluctuating in recent years. Despite its tremendous expansion, India’s cashew sector has been affected by low-quality cashew cultivated in some regions, which is mostly due to improper harvesting techniques, inadequate drying of the nuts and insufficient storage and warehouse facilities for dried cashew nuts.

Design: For the purpose of analysis, this study used secondary data sources - Google Scholar articles, cashew industry and other related websites. Moreover, the literature is used to analyse the position of the industry within SWOC and PESTLE framework analysis.

Findings: Based on the analysis, the cashew business needs certain incentives to attain a better rate of production and export growth in the future.

Value: This paper emphases on the growth of the cashew industry in India in relation to its
current status and future opportunities. Based on findings and their interpretation, the Indian
Cashew Industry must prepare itself for the ever-increasing demand of the domestic market
and contribute more effectively to the country’s economic growth.

Keywords: Cashew, Cashew Industry, Food Processing Industry, Marketing Aspects, SWOC framework, and PESTLE analysis