In a decision aimed at revitalizing the cashew nut sector, the state government has set the price of domestic raw cashew nuts (RCN) at an all-time high of ₹150 per kg. The record rate was set during a high-level meeting of the state-appointed price fixing committee, marking the highest value the government has ever assigned to cashew nuts.
The move is expected to provide immediate relief to cashew farmers while ensuring that cashew factories have a stable and reliable supply of raw materials free from market fluctuations. To ensure that this fair price reaches every grower, the commission has issued a strict mandate requiring all buyers to pay the full ₹150 per kilogram. The government has also created a robust procurement network to facilitate this, primarily through the Kerala State Cashew Development Corporation (KSCDC) and the Kerala State Cashew Workers Apex Industrial Co-operative Society (CAPEX). These public sector organizations will receive produce directly from farmers at various manufacturing plants.
Market stability
In addition, the Cashew Board will manage larger volumes through a specialized tender to maintain market stability throughout the harvest. “This price will remain valid from the beginning of the season till its end and the government intends to ensure a fair price to the farmers through this. The farming community should bypass the middlemen and supply their entire harvest to Cashew Corporation, CAPEX or Cashew Board to get maximum economic benefit,” said S. Jayamohan, Chairman, KSCDC.
B. Ashok, Principal Secretary, Department of Agriculture and Commissioner, Agricultural Production, presided over the Price Fixation Committee meeting. By streamlining the procurement process through state-owned factories and the cashew board, the government hopes to create a sustainable ecosystem that will protect the interests of agricultural workers as well as industrial units dependent on high-quality domestic raw cashews.
Published – 20 Feb 2026 17:48 IST