The Cashew Traders and Exporters Association of Ghana is calling for urgent government intervention to address what they describe as a growing threat to their industry posed by unauthorized foreign buyers.

According to the Association, these individuals, whom they allege are operating under the guise of exporters, are purchasing cashew crops at inflated prices far above the official rate.

This practice, the traders argue, undermines local trade practices, destabilizes the market, and poses a significant risk to the long-term viability of the cashew industry.

Mr. Kwabena Owusu, National Organizer of the Cashew Traders and Exporters Association, highlighted the issue in an interview with Asona Dehyie Kwateng.

He stated that foreign buyers are purchasing cashews at prices as high as GHS20 to GHS25 per kilogram, well above the official rate of GHS15 set by the tree crop authorities.

“These foreign buyers are even purchasing unripe cashews at exorbitant prices, which disrupts the market and causes genuine traders to lose business,” Mr. Owusu lamented.

He added that the practice compromises the integrity of the industry, as unripe cashews do not meet quality standards and could harm Ghana's reputation in international markets.

The Association is appealing to the government, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, to take immediate action to halt these activities.

They warn that the continued unchecked involvement of these foreign buyers could lead to the collapse of the local cashew market, leaving farmers and legitimate traders in financial ruin.

“We are urging the government to step in before it’s too late. If this continues, the market will destabilize, and farmers will ultimately bear the brunt of the damage when these foreign buyers pull out,” Mr. Owusu stressed.

The traders are calling on the government to investigate and enforce regulations that ensure fair and sustainable trade practices within the cashew industry.

They believe stricter oversight and adherence to pricing guidelines set by the tree crop authorities will protect local businesses and farmers from exploitation.

The Association also expressed concerns about the broader impact of these activities, emphasizing the need to preserve the industry’s sustainability and reputation in both local and international markets.

“Without immediate action, Ghana risks losing one of its most promising agricultural sectors,” Mr. Owusu concluded.