Tanzania: Cashew production expected to reach 595,000 tonnes in 2024/2025
Tanzania, a key player in the East African cashew market and the continent’s second largest producer after Côte d’Ivoire, is anticipating a significant increase in its production. For the 2024/2025 season, the cashew harvest is expected at 595,000 tonnes, marking a 95% increase compared to the previous season, according to forecasts by the Cashew Board (CBT).
Impressive growth supported by subsidized inputs
The sharp increase, which would see production almost double from the 305,000 tonnes harvested in 2023/24, is largely attributed to improved productivity in the growing areas. According to Revelian Ngaiza, CBT’s Director of Commercial and Quality Control, the improvement is mainly due to the early distribution of subsidised inputs to farmers, before the start of the growing season. In 2023/24, the budget for these subsidies has doubled to Sh189 billion (about $73 million), contributing to improved yields in the main producing areas.
Expansion of cultivation areas
Cashew plantations already cover an impressive area in Tanzania, with over 811,700 hectares spread across regions such as Mtwara, Lindi, Ruvuma, Tanga and Pwani. However, the Tanzanian government is not stopping there. As part of its strategy to increase production, the Ministry of Agriculture announced in 2023 the expansion of cashew cultivation to 13 new regions, including Morogoro, Dodoma, Singida and Tabora.
Conclusion
With a production forecast of 595,000 tonnes for 2024/2025, Tanzania is consolidating its position as the leading cashew producer in East Africa. This spectacular growth, supported by increased subsidies and an expansion of cultivation areas, promises to strengthen the country’s agricultural economy. If these efforts continue, Tanzania could soon compete even more closely with Côte d’Ivoire in the international cashew market.
