Cashew Price Index
Reference prices for raw cashew nut (RCN) and processed kernels across the world's major origin and processing hubs. Pricing is FOB at port of export; converted at prevailing rates. For deal-specific quotes, send an RFQ — verified processors respond with current offers within 24 hours.
Kernel grades — price per pound (USD/lb), FOB
Wholesale reference. Retail and case-pack pricing differ.
| Grade | India FOB | Vietnam FOB | Δ 7d | Δ 30d |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| W180 | $8.10 | $8.30 | +0.8% | +2.1% |
| W210 | $6.40 | $6.55 | +0.6% | +1.4% |
| W240 | $5.40 | $5.55 | +0.4% | +0.9% |
| W320 | $4.55 | $4.65 | −0.2% | −1.1% |
| W400 | $4.10 | $4.20 | −0.1% | −0.6% |
| W450 | $3.95 | $4.05 | +0.1% | −0.4% |
| SW | $3.20 | $3.30 | flat | −0.3% |
| LWP | $3.05 | $3.15 | +0.2% | +0.5% |
| SWP | $2.65 | $2.75 | +0.1% | +0.3% |
Raw cashew nut (RCN) — price per metric tonne (USD/MT)
RCN trades in bulk lots, typically 50–500 MT. Quality grading (defective count, KOR — kernel out-turn ratio) materially affects spot pricing.
| Origin | Price (USD/MT) | Δ 7d | Δ 30d |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ivory Coast | $1,150 | +1.2% | +3.4% |
| Tanzania | $1,090 | +0.6% | +1.8% |
| Mozambique | $1,070 | +0.4% | +1.5% |
| Benin | $1,120 | +1.0% | +2.7% |
| India (domestic) | $1,280 | +0.8% | +2.0% |
How to read the index
Cashew pricing is opaque by default — most deals close on private quotes between processors and buyers, and published indices like NCDEX or local mandi rates only cover the Indian domestic side. The Cashew Index aggregates reference prices from public reports, exporter submissions, and our processor network to give buyers and sellers a shared benchmark.
What drives kernel prices?
- Grade — bigger wholes (W180, W210, W240) command premiums; broken pieces (LWP, SWP) trade at discounts.
- Origin — India FOB typically commands a small premium over Vietnam FOB on equivalent grades, reflecting processing reputation and US/EU buyer preference.
- RCN supply — the underlying raw cashew nut harvest in West Africa (Feb–Jun) and Tanzania/Mozambique (Oct–Jan) drives kernel availability 3–6 months out.
- Currency — INR and VND weakness boosts FOB competitiveness for buyers paying in USD or EUR.
What drives RCN prices?
- KOR (kernel out-turn ratio) — the percentage of usable kernel meat per kilogram of raw nut. KOR of 48–52 lbs/80kg bag is typical for Ivory Coast; higher KOR commands a premium.
- Defective count — defects above 8–10% per sample reduce pricing.
- Origin season — West African harvest peak (Mar–May) compresses prices; off-season trades at premium.
- Vietnam buying programs — Vietnamese processors import most of their RCN from Africa; their tendering activity moves the market.
FAQ
How often is the cashew price index updated? +
In v1, prices are reference benchmarks sourced from public market reports and broker submissions, refreshed weekly. The Q3 launch of the live index will refresh daily, with hourly intraday quotes for premium subscribers.
What does FOB mean in cashew pricing? +
FOB (Free on Board) is the price of goods at the port of export, before international freight. India FOB pricing typically reflects ports like Tuticorin or Cochin; Vietnam FOB reflects Ho Chi Minh City.
Why are RCN prices quoted per metric tonne? +
Raw cashew nut (RCN) is traded in bulk shipments — typically 50–500 MT per lot — so per-MT pricing is the trade convention. Kernels are priced per pound (lb) reflecting their higher value density.
How do I get current cashew prices for my deal? +
Send an RFQ with your grade, quantity, and destination. Verified processors respond directly with their current offer, which is the only price that reflects actual lot availability.
Need today's actual price?
Reference indices are useful for trend-watching. For a real quote on a real lot, send an RFQ and verified processors reply with their current FOB offer — usually within 24 hours.