Study on the needs of cashew producers – 2018

This project was financed by the International Monetary Fund and implemented through the Studies Office of the Ministry of Economy and Finance.

Cashew nuts are Guinea-Bissau’s main product, accounting for 90% of the country’s exports, with poor economic diversification and a lack of data on other products. The objective was to understand the reality of cashew producers; analyze quantities and prices of cashew nuts; assess the economic impact of cashew, including jobs, resources and finances; and examine how the dynamics of the sector affect the lives of producers and the country’s economy.

The studies concluded that there was high optimism regarding prices and quantities, and many producers do not fully understand the dynamics of the cashew market (supply and demand). The Bolama, Tombali and Quinará regions are heavily affected by pests. There is a growing trend towards increasing the size of plantations, which can pose risks. The lack of savings and access to credit makes it difficult to prepare for the cashew campaign. Many producers do not have sufficient liquidity, and there are concerns related to costs, including traditional methods of paying workers (1/3 rule).