The objective is to increase the productivity, quality and value addition of cashew nuts for the benefit of smallholders and the local processing industry.

In the presence of the elite of exporters, processors, producers and buyers, the Shared Cost Subsidies (Scp) mechanism of the Cashew Value Chain Competitiveness Promotion Project (Ppca) was launched (yesterday) in Cocody by Dr Adama Coulibaly, its coordinator. He is also the Managing Director of the Cashew Cotton Council.

This project aims to increase the productivity, quality and added value of cashew nuts for the benefit of smallholders and the local processing industry, Dr. Adama Coulibaly explained to the press.

The mechanism of shared-cost subsidies for the benefit of project promoters aiming to promote cashew is divided into three components. This involves institutional and governance support for the cashew value chain, improving productivity and access to markets. The last component relates to support for private sector development and investment in cashew nut processing.

In launching this project, the government's objective is clear. For Côte d'Ivoire, the world's leading producer with 716,317 tonnes (nearly 24% of world production), it is a matter of raising its processing rate, which is below 10%. As part of this project, from June 17, 2019, a call for projects will be launched in order to financially support project leaders. The start of the withdrawal of applications is scheduled for the 21st of the same month.

Seizing the opportunity, the Director General of the Cashew Cotton Council invited cooperatives of cashew producers, industrialists in the sector, warehouse operators, women and young people carrying out micro-projects to take an active part in this project.

To the banks, the boss of the Cashew Cotton Council recalled that they must now "have confidence in the cashew sector". Because, he believes, this one, with its remarkable performances, presents the signs of a reassuring future.