Introduction: India’s Booming Cashew Export Industry
India is one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of cashew nuts, contributing significantly to the global trade in this high-demand commodity. From the lush orchards of Kerala and Goa to modern processing units in Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra, Indian cashew nuts are prized for their superior quality and taste.
As global consumers shift toward healthier snacks, the demand for premium cashew kernels continues to grow—especially in the Middle East. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as a major importer, serving not just its domestic market but also re-exporting to other GCC countries.
If you’re an aspiring exporter, learning how to export cashew nuts from India to UAE can unlock lucrative opportunities in 2026 and beyond. Let’s explore everything you need to know to get started.
Understanding the UAE Cashew Market Demand
Why the UAE is a Key Importer of Indian Cashews
The UAE is a major hub for global trade, thanks to its strategic geographic location, advanced logistics infrastructure, and strong consumer purchasing power. Indian cashews are highly preferred due to their consistent quality and competitive pricing.
Dubai, in particular, acts as a re-export hub—importing cashew kernels from India and distributing them to countries like Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kuwait.
Market Size, Consumption Trends, and Buyer Preferences
Cashew consumption in the UAE is driven by the hospitality industry, confectionery producers, and healthy snack brands. The market prefers W180, W210, and W240 grades—indicating whole, premium cashews with minimal defects.
As of 2025, India exported cashews worth over $400 million to the Middle East, and this number is expected to rise by 10–15% annually due to increasing demand for plant-based snacks.
Types of Cashew Nuts Exported from India
Raw Cashew Nuts (RCN)
These are unprocessed cashew seeds, primarily exported for shelling and processing in the importing country.
Processed Cashew Kernels
The most in-demand export type, processed kernels come in various grades based on size, color, and texture.
Value-Added Cashew Products
Includes roasted, salted, or flavored cashews—popular in premium snack segments and retail packaging.
Step-by-Step Process to Export Cashew Nuts from India to UAE
Step 1: Register Your Export Business with DGFT and IEC Code
To legally export from India, obtain an Importer Exporter Code (IEC) from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). This serves as your business identification in international trade.
Step 2: Obtain FSSAI and APEDA Certifications
Food exporters must register with FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) and APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) to ensure product quality compliance.
Step 3: Source and Grade Quality Cashew Nuts
Partner with reliable processors or cooperatives. Ensure that nuts meet export-grade specifications, such as moisture content below 5% and uniform kernel size.
Step 4: Packaging, Labeling, and Branding Requirements
Cashews must be packed in vacuum-sealed, food-grade pouches or tins. Include details such as grade, net weight, country of origin, and expiry date.
Step 5: Choose the Right Shipping Method (Air vs. Sea Freight)
For bulk shipments, sea freight via ports like Cochin or Mangalore is cost-effective. For smaller or urgent consignments, use air freight to Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Step 6: Customs Clearance and Export Documentation
Submit all required documents to Indian customs and coordinate with a freight forwarder for smooth clearance and shipment tracking.
Export Documentation Required for Cashew Nuts
| Document Name | Purpose |
| Commercial Invoice | Details value and terms of sale |
| Packing List | Specifies packaging and quantity |
| Bill of Lading / Airway Bill | Proof of shipment |
| Certificate of Origin | Confirms product origin (India) |
| Phytosanitary Certificate | Ensures plant product safety |
| FSSAI & APEDA Certificates | Validates food-grade compliance |
Cashew Nut Export Tariff Codes (HS Code)
- Raw Cashew Nuts: HS Code 080131
- Processed Cashew Kernels: HS Code 080132
These HS Codes are essential for customs classification, tariffs, and trade statistics.
Key Export Regulations and Compliance Requirements
UAE Food Safety and Import Regulations
Cashew nuts entering the UAE must comply with the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) food safety standards.
Indian Export Policies and Incentives
Exporters can benefit from the RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products) scheme and APEDA support programs for international promotion.
Logistics and Shipping from India to UAE
Major Indian ports like Cochin, Mangalore, and Chennai handle cashew exports to Jebel Ali Port (Dubai). Sea shipments usually take 7–10 days, depending on freight schedules.
Cashew Nut Export Pricing and Profit Margin Calculation
Export pricing is determined by FOB (Free on Board) or CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) terms.
Typical margins range from 10–25%, depending on cashew grade, volume, and shipping method.
Finding Cashew Buyers in the UAE
You can find verified buyers on B2B platforms like Alibaba, TradeIndia, and GlobalSources, or by attending Dubai World Trade Centre food expos and Gulfood events.
Major Cashew Exporting States in India
The leading cashew-producing and exporting states are Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Goa, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra, accounting for more than 90% of total exports.
Challenges in Exporting Cashew Nuts to UAE
- Strict quality standards and price competition
- Rising freight costs and currency fluctuations
- Payment delays or buyer credibility issues
To mitigate risks, use Letter of Credit (LC) for secure payments and partner with verified logistics providers.
Tips for Success in the Cashew Export Business
- Focus on consistent quality and branding
- Build long-term contracts with UAE importers
- Use digital marketing to attract wholesale buyers online
- Explore value-added cashew snacks to increase margins
FAQs About Exporting Cashew Nuts from India to UAE
1. What is the minimum investment required to start cashew export from India?
Around ₹5–10 lakhs for initial setup, certifications, and logistics.
2. How long does shipping take from India to UAE?
Typically 7–10 days via sea freight.
3. Which cashew grades are most popular in the UAE market?
W180, W210, and W240 whole cashews.
4. Can small businesses export cashews from India?
Yes, through export aggregators or by registering directly with DGFT and APEDA.
5. Is FSSAI license mandatory for export?
Yes, it’s required for all food exports from India.
6. Where can I find UAE cashew buyers?
Attend Gulfood Dubai or use B2B trade portals.
Conclusion: Unlocking Lucrative Opportunities in UAE Cashew Market
Exporting cashew nuts from India to UAE offers tremendous potential due to strong demand, strategic trade relations, and the popularity of Indian cashews. By ensuring compliance, maintaining product quality, and building lasting buyer relationships, exporters can thrive in this profitable niche.
For more insights on export regulations and certifications, visit APEDA’s official website.
