Introduction – Thailand’s Cashew Nut Market: A Quantitative Overview
The global demand for cashew nuts is on the rise, fueled by health trends and plant-based diets. While Thailand may not dominate the global stage, it plays a strategic role in the regional cashew trade—especially with neighboring countries like Cambodia, Vietnam, and India.
As of 2022, Thailand produced around 24,920 metric tons of cashew nuts, accounting for just 0.65% of global production, ranking it 16th globally (Tridge). In 2023, the country exported 3,600 metric tons valued at $3 million, a 24.2% year-on-year drop (IndexBox). Despite the decline, Thailand remains a vital trade hub due to proximity to major processors and exporters.
The average export price in 2023 was $844 per ton, reflecting an 11% decline from the previous year. Globally, the cashew market is expected to grow from $8.08 billion in 2025 to $9.51 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 3.31% (Mordor Intelligence).
With this in mind, businesses need to adopt a data-driven approach when selecting suppliers—focusing on performance history, certifications, and verified sourcing platforms like Freshdi, which offers real-time RFQ data, supplier rankings, and import/export analytics.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Current Demand Data
Thailand’s cashew nut production may be modest, but its strategic exports to regional powerhouses reveal interesting insights. In 2023:
- Cambodia received 2,266 metric tons
- Vietnam imported 1,138 metric tons
- India took in 108 metric tons
The slump in exports over the past two years is notable, but so is the resilience of Thai suppliers who continue to cater to high-demand markets. On Freshdi, real-time RFQ (Request for Quotation) trends show consistent buyer interest from Southeast Asia, particularly for raw and semi-processed cashew nuts.
This demand data mirrors national export trends, reinforcing the importance of platforms like Freshdi to monitor market activity and identify top-performing suppliers.
Top 3 Verified Cashew Nut Suppliers in Thailand – Leading Exporters by Volume
Here are the Top 3 Cashew Nut Suppliers in Thailand in Week 12 of 2025, verified by export volume, buyer ratings, and certifications on Freshdi:
1. APP Prime Tradings Co. Ltd
- A leader in raw cashew nut exports.
- Known for ISO-certified processing and HACCP compliance.
- Strong relationships with buyers in Vietnam and India.
- High RFQ response rate and excellent buyer feedback on Freshdi.
2. Mangmee Enterprise Company Limited
- Specializes in semi-processed and roasted cashew nuts.
- Gained traction in 2025 with increased exports to Cambodia.
- Offers private-label packaging services and OEM production.
3. SUNISA KANKA
- Focuses on organic and sustainably sourced cashew nuts.
- Acts as both a processor and exporter.
- Certified by Thai FDA and holds GMP certifications.
Dynamic Ranking Note
Freshdi updates its supplier leaderboard weekly. Rankings are based on various metrics including:
– Export volume
– Verified shipments
– Buyer ratings
– RFQ engagement levels
Keep in mind: “Top suppliers of the week” may change dynamically based on recent performance, so always refer to Freshdi’s live leaderboard for the most current insights.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Value Dynamics & Export Dynamics
Export Trends
Thailand’s exports rebounded in 2024 after two years of steady decline. Key numbers include:
- $14.07 million in exports in 2023
- Top destinations: US, Cambodia, Vietnam, India, and China
- Import sources: Primarily from Myanmar and Laos
The US remains the most lucrative market, with over $10 million in value. Cambodia and Vietnam are key volume destinations due to their processing industries.
Demand Data
Domestic demand is also noteworthy:
- Cashews make up 90% of all nuts consumed in Thailand.
- Per capita consumption doubled from 0.1kg in 2017 to 0.2kg in 2021.
- Urban areas are driving increased consumption, preferring cashews over almonds and peanuts.
Price Fluctuations
Prices have been anything but stable:
- Q1 2025 saw Vietnam’s average export price rise by 26.7%, affecting regional pricing.
- Thai export prices dropped to $844/ton in 2023, but could trend upwards in 2025.
- Factors: Climate change, pest outbreaks, and logistics costs.
Forecasts
- Export volume is expected to grow moderately by 2026.
- Per capita domestic consumption could reach 0.3kg by 2026.
- Stronger trade with the US, Indonesia, and Europe forecasted.
- Supply chains may diversify beyond Myanmar and Laos due to geopolitical and climate risks.
Latest Developments (2025)
- Indonesia emerged as a growing buyer, importing $830,180 worth of Thai cashews in 2024.
- The Netherlands showed a 23.5% YoY increase in imports.
- China’s demand dropped by 76.8%, possibly due to policy changes or inventory surpluses.
- Vietnam’s drop in volume (-31.8%) but increase in value (+13.7%) suggests tightening global supply.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Optimized Supply Chains
Thailand’s cashew nut industry may not lead in volume, but its strategic export relationships, growing domestic demand, and resilient supplier base make it an important player in the Southeast Asian market.
For businesses looking to source from Thailand:
- Use data-backed platforms like Freshdi to identify top-performing, verified suppliers.
- Consider both volume metrics and qualitative factors like certifications and buyer reviews.
- Account for seasonal and regional price fluctuations when planning purchases.
Platforms like Freshdi empower buyers with tools to make informed decisions—from dynamic supplier rankings to RFQ trend analysis and market intelligence dashboards.
Key Takeaways
- Thailand exports mainly to Cambodia, Vietnam, and India.
- Domestic consumption is growing fast, especially in urban centers.
- Export prices are volatile but show signs of recovery in 2025.
- Freshdi provides a competitive edge with real-time data on suppliers and market shifts.
Cashew Nut Sourcing Checklist for Buyers
✅ Check supplier certifications (GMP, HACCP, ISO)
✅ Confirm export performance via Freshdi’s live dashboards
✅ Monitor RFQ trends for market demand indicators
✅ Evaluate seasonal pricing before procurement
✅ Use Freshdi’s messaging tools for direct supplier negotiations
Future Outlook
Thailand’s cashew nut sector is set to benefit from:
- Increasing consumer health awareness
- ASEAN trade integration
- Improved climate-resistant farming practices
As the global market grows to $9.51 billion by 2030, Thailand’s role—especially through verified suppliers—will become even more relevant.
How Freshdi Empowers Cashew Nut Buyers
- Supplier Verification: Only trusted, vetted exporters listed
- RFQ Marketplace: Post your demand and receive multiple quotes
- Market Insights: Access export trends, price forecasts, and buyer reviews
- Dynamic Rankings: See who’s trending as Supplier of the Week
- Trade Tools: From messaging to document uploads—everything in one place
FAQs
1. Why is Thailand a good source for cashew nuts despite its small global share?
Because of its strategic location, reliable exporters, and proximity to processing hubs like Vietnam and India.
2. How can I verify a Thai supplier’s export performance?
Use Freshdi’s supplier profiles. They include export volumes, certifications, and buyer reviews.
3. What’s the current export price for cashew nuts from Thailand?
As of 2023, it was around $844 per ton, but regional trends suggest prices may rise in 2025.
4. Are Thai cashew nuts organic or conventional?
Both. Suppliers like SUNISA KANKA specialize in organic nuts, while others offer conventional options.
5. Can I negotiate directly with suppliers on Freshdi?
Yes. Freshdi offers messaging and RFQ tools to streamline negotiations and sample requests.
