The Golden Cashew Festival held at Binh Phuoc province for the first time is a chance to spread Vietnam Cashew Industry. Bui Van Thach, head of the organizing board of the festival said the festival would be a revolution for the country cashew industry.

Why is Binh Phuoc province selected to host the Golden Cashew Festival 2010?

Over the past 15 years, Vietnam Cashew Industry has created a prestigious trademark in the world, compared to 32 cashew growing nations worldwide. At present, the country has about 500,000 ha of cashew with an output of over 384,000 tons in 2008. Among 5 cashew growing areas nationwide such as Southeastern, Central Highlands, Mekong Delta and Central North regions, the Southeastern region is considered as the biggest area of growing cashew trees. As of the end of 2008, the region had about over 282,000 ha of cashew, accounting for 67% of total of the country’s cashew area and ranked first on capacity and output in the country.

Binh Phuoc province is a highlighted locality of growing cashew in the Southeastern region with an area of about 200,000 ha, accounting for 45% of the country’s area. Besides, the locality is home to numerous cashew makers, placing jobs for countless laborers. For these reasons, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Vietnam Cashew Association agreed to hold the festival in the province.

Could you tell about the festival’s significance and purpose?

The festival is to spread Vietnam cashew industry, honor cashew growers, makers as well as set out strategies for the Vietnam cashew industry’s sustainable development. After the event, there will be a revolution for Vietnam cashew industry to raise output and quality of cashew tree, promoting market expansion and healthy competition.

Could you tell about the festival’s activities?

The festival will honor individuals, associations, makers and cashew growers nationwide, include logo, gastronomy contests relating to cashew tree. Besides, forums, seminars on cashew tree will take place at the festival. The event will also eye activities of holding trade fair, gastronomy festive, visits to cashew plantations, excursions, kylin-dragon dance, gong contest…

What are your expectations after the festival?

Possibly speaking, cashew tree was not paid attention in 90s but over the past 15 years it has showed a fast growth. In 2008, the country reaped over $920mil from cashew exports and ranked first on cashew production in the world. This year will be a year with expectations as cashew gives abundant harvests and good price. According to Vinacas, the cashew industry will reach over $1bil in this year and enter the $1bil club.

Through the festival, the province hopes that the government will pay more attention to cashew tree to ensure its sustainable growth. After the festival, cashew growers and makers will be paid more attention and enjoy better supports.

Thanks a lot!

Reported K.Tan – Translated by A.C