Which City Is Known as the Cashew Capital of the World?
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Do you know which city is known as the Cashew Capital of the World? Explore the history, origin of the title, cashew industry importance, production and interesting facts in this detailed article
For decades, this coastal city has played a silent yet powerful role in shaping the global cashew industry. From processing raw nuts to exporting finished products worldwide, its contribution goes far beyond local trade. Known for its skilled workforce and long industrial legacy, this city raises curiosity about why it holds such a global title.
Why Is This City Called the Cashew Capital of the World?
Kollam, located in Kerala is called the Cashew Capital of the World because it has been the largest centre for cashew processing and exporting for several decades. The city hosts hundreds of cashew processing units and has historically handled a major share of the world’s processed cashew kernels.
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Where Is Kollam Located?
Kollam is located on the southwest coast of India in the state of Kerala, along the Arabian Sea. Its coastal location made it an important trading port, facilitating easy import of raw cashew nuts and export of processed cashew kernels.
Historical Origin of the Title Cashew Capital of the World
Kollam earned the title during the 20th century when it emerged as the world’s largest centre for cashew processing. The establishment of organised factories, skilled labour and export networks helped the city dominate the global cashew trade for decades.
Importance of the Cashew Industry in Kollam
The cashew industry is the backbone of Kollam’s economy. It provides employment to thousands of workers, especially women, and contributes significantly to India’s agricultural exports. The city played a crucial role in making India one of the world’s leading cashew exporters.
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Largest Producer of Cashew in India
Maharashtra is the largest producer of cashew in India in terms of total production. Other major cashew-producing states include Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. These states supply raw cashew nuts that are processed and traded through major centres like Kollam.
Role of Kollam in Global Cashew Trade
Kollam has traditionally processed cashew nuts sourced from India and African countries. Processed kernels from the city are exported to markets across Europe, the United States, and the Middle East, giving Kollam global recognition in the cashew industry.
Interesting Facts About Kollam
Largest Processing Hub
Kollam once processed more than half of the world’s cashew kernels, making it the most important cashew-processing centre globally for several decades.
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Women Workforce Dominance
A large percentage of workers in Kollam’s cashew industry are women, providing stable employment and supporting household incomes.
Historic Export Centre
Cashew exports from Kollam played a major role in establishing India as a trusted supplier of processed cashew kernels worldwide.
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Industrial Identity
The city’s economy, reputation and industrial development are deeply connected to the cashew sector.
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Legacy Industry
Cashew processing skills in Kollam have been passed down through generations, preserving traditional expertise alongside modern methods.
Kollam is known as the Cashew Capital of the World because of its historic dominance in cashew processing, strong export networks and skilled workforce.
Culled from Jagran Josh
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