The Hindu Business Line : Cashew industry targets `zero defects' by Dec 2007

The Cashew Export Promotion Council of India (CEPCI) will formulate good manufacturing practices for the cashew industry to meet world standards by March 2007.

This will help the industry achieve zero defects by December the same year, said Mr Walter D'Souza, Chairman, CEPCI.

He was presenting details of the CEPSI-Vision 2020 document at the valedictory function of `Kaju India 2006', an international buyer-seller meet being held here.

Earlier, the Union Minister, Mr Oscar Fernandes, released the document.

MODERNISATION DRIVE

Intensified programmes will be implemented for technological upgradation and modernisation of the industry in order to meet buyers' expectations. Packaging and presentation will be improved and enhanced to add value.

CEPCI will work towards quality certification and rating for cashew exporters. It will strive to increase the country's market share and to regain dominant position in the world market. It will aim at number one position in production, processing, imports and exports.

EXPORT TARGETS

CEPCI visualises export of 2.75 lakh tonnes of cashew kernels by 2020 against the current 1.15 lakh tonnes. This requires Indian raw nut production to be increased to 1.9 million tonnes, while maintaining imports at 0.50 million tonnes. The council has requested the Centre to ensure production at these levels.

According to projections, this will translate into employment generation of 850 million man-days for 1.25 million workers and sustainable horticulture opportunities for one million farmers.

VALUE ADDITION

The number of countries to which cashews are exported shall be increased from 60 to 125. CEPCI will target a compounded annual growth rate in exports to 20 `focus' countries in the new markets being explored. It will strive to ensure that at least 20 per cent of the exports will be value-added and marketed under the `Made In India' brand.

CEPCI will also strive to enhance productivity and competitiveness in cultivation and post-harvest technology of raw cashew nuts by motivating all departments under the Ministry of Agriculture at Central and State levels.

NUTRITION VALUE

Efforts will be made to raise awareness about the nutrition value of cashew to target groups and other benefits to a larger audience. Studies will be launched to substantiate, validate and confirm the benefits to the consumer.

Multilateral initiatives will be launched to foster co-operative and collective efforts in the promotion of cashew consumption for all-round development of the cashew economy.

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