Cashew Export from India in 2025: An Exclusive Guide for Exporters (CEPCI)

India is one of the top exporters of cashew kernels in the world. In 2025 this remains true. With rising demand in global markets like the USA, UAE, Japan and Europe, Indian exporters are finding strong ground to expand

But exporting cashews is not as simple as shipping a nut. It involves compliance, certification, documentation and partnership with regulatory bodies like the Cashew Export Promotion Council of India (CEPCI). This article gives you everything you need to begin or scale your cashew export business

India’s Cashew Export Strength

Mainly cashews are grown in states like Kerala, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Tamil Nadu. From harvesting to processing India has built a well-established supply chain. In 2025 the sector benefits from:

• Modern processing technology
• Skilled workforce
• Government support through CEPCI
• Growing international demand
• Reputation for quality and hygiene

These strengths give Indian cashew exporters a steady edge

Who is CEPCI and Why It Matters

The Cashew Export Promotion Council of India (CEPCI) is the official body that supports Indian exporters. CEPCI helps in:

• Guiding exporters with global standards
• Facilitating buyer-seller meets
• Managing quality control
• Offering trade data and export statistics
• Supporting capacity building programs

If you’re serious about cashew exports, CEPCI is your first checkpoint.

Types of Cashew Products Exported from India

Exporters deal in several cashew product types, including:

• Cashew Kernels (White Wholes & Scorched)
• Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL)
• Flavored or roasted kernels
• Broken kernels (used in confectionery)

Each product type follows a different HS code and quality specification depending on the market it’s being exported to.

How to Start a Cashew Export Business in 2025

Starting the cashew export process needs some preparation. These are the steps you must follow:

Step 1: Company Setup and IEC Code

You must register your firm as an exporter. Choose between Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP or Private Limited Company. Once registered apply for the Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT. This code is mandatory for all exports

Step 2: CEPCI Registration

After IEC, register your business with CEPCI. This registration gives you access to:

• Export data
• Buyer contacts
• Participation in global trade fairs
• Technical support on documentation
• Access to export schemes

Step 3: FSSAI License and APEDA Registration

You need an FSSAI Central License for export because cashews are a food product. You also need to register with APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) for certain support and subsidies

Step 4: Choose Quality Grades

Cashew exports are heavily quality-driven. India uses a standard grading system like W180, W240, W320 (where W stands for White wholes). Each grade has a price band in the global market.

High-grade nuts go for premium rates. Broken nuts go to baking and food production industries.

Step 5: Source from Trusted Suppliers or Farms

You can either run your own processing unit or buy from BIS-certified units. Reliable sourcing ensures consistency in size, flavor and appearance key metrics for foreign buyers

Step 6: Packaging and Labeling for Export

Cashew is sensitive to moisture. You must use:

• Vacuum-sealed pouches
• Tin containers with carbon dioxide flushing
• Food-grade cartons

Labels must mention:

• Grade
• Net Weight
• Country of Origin
• Batch Number
• FSSAI License
• CEPCI Registration

Step 7: Select Your Target Market

Different countries have different demand patterns. For example:

Country	Top-Selling Grade	Preference
USA	W320, W240	Organic, roasted, value-added
UAE	W180, W210	Premium whole kernels
Japan	W320	Roasted and salted
Netherlands	Scorched Wholes	Price-sensitive markets

Study the demand before choosing your export country.

Documents Needed for Cashew Export in 2025

Each consignment must carry the following documents:

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
• Certificate of Origin (from Chamber of Commerce)
• Phytosanitary Certificate (issued by Plant Quarantine office)
• FSSAI Compliance Certificate
• CEPCI Registration copy
• Insurance Certificate
• Test report (if required by buyer)

All documents must match the shipment content exactly to avoid clearance delays.

Export Fees and Taxes to Consider

While exporting cashew in 2025, these are some of the expenses and taxes you’ll incur:

Fee Type	Estimated Amount (INR)
IEC Application Fee	₹500
CEPCI Registration Fee	₹5,000 to ₹10,000
FSSAI Central License	₹7,500+
APEDA Registration	₹5,900
Export Duty (if applicable)	Usually Nil
Freight & Logistics	₹25–50 per kg
Testing & Certification	₹3,000 to ₹10,000

Note: Costs can vary based on port, country and shipping terms

Tips to Grow Your Cashew Export Business

In 2025, Indian cashew exporters are finding new ways to increase growth. Here are some strategies that work:

• Build direct relationships with international retailers
• List products on global marketplaces (like Amazon Global Selling)
• Join CEPCI-sponsored trade fairs
• Use HACCP and ISO certifications for factory units
• Explore premium segments like organic or flavored cashews
• Partner with experienced export consultants for smooth compliance

Read More FSSAI Central License

Agile Regulatory Helps You Export Cashew the Right Way

At Agile Regulatory, we support Indian cashew exporters in all compliance steps. From getting your IEC, CEPCI, and FSSAI license to managing packaging and documentation, our team ensures a smooth export journey.

We help you:

• Register your export firm
• Complete CEPCI and APEDA formalities
• Get quality and food safety certifications
• File paperwork for every shipment
• Stay updated with changing rules in 2025 and beyond

Start your cashew export with full confidence—Agile Regulatory is your trusted export compliance partner.