The global cashew market entered May 2026 with a noticeably different structure compared to the beginning of the year. After a prolonged correction phase during Q1, the market is now showing signs of stabilization, while buyer activity is gradually returning across several major regions.
For importers and distributors, the key concern is no longer whether prices have bottomed, but whether the current market represents the final opportunity to secure supply before a broader Q2 increase.
đ Latest Vietnam Cashew Prices â 4 May 2026
White Cashew Kernels (FOB Ho Chi Minh)
| Grade | Price (USD/kg) | Market Status |
|---|---|---|
| WW180 | 9.70 | stable |
| WW210 | 8.80 | firm |
| WW240 | 7.65 | slight increase |
| WW320 | 7.20 | stable |
Roasted Cashew â Salted with Skin
| Grade | Price (USD/kg) | Market Status |
|---|---|---|
| A180 | 8.40 | stable |
| A240 | 7.00 | stable |
| A320 | 6.80 | stable |
Quality: AFI Standards
Delivery: End of May / Early June shipment
đ Live Price Update:
https://svc.vn/cashew-price-update-svc-official/
đ Market Structure Has Changed Since Q1
The market environment in May is significantly different from what buyers experienced during January and February.
During Q1:
⢠buyers delayed purchasing decisions
⢠inventories remained high in several regions
⢠market sentiment was cautious
⢠suppliers competed aggressively on price
However, by late April and early May:
⢠inventories have gradually normalized
⢠quotation activity has increased
⢠demand inquiries are becoming more frequent
⢠price volatility has narrowed significantly
This transition is important because markets rarely move upward immediately after a correction. They stabilize first, then gradually recover as confidence returns.
đ Demand Recovery Across Key Markets
Several demand indicators improved entering May.
Europe
European buyers who reduced inventory aggressively in Q1 are gradually returning to secure volume for summer distribution cycles.
Particularly active segments include:
⢠retail packed kernels
⢠roasted products
⢠OEM snack products
United States
The US market remains cautious but is showing stronger inquiry activity for standard grades such as WW320 and WW240.
Importers are increasingly evaluating medium-term contracts rather than spot purchases alone.
Middle East
The Middle East continues to be one of the strongest-performing regions, especially for:
⢠roasted cashew
⢠flavored products
⢠premium retail packaging
This segment remains less price-sensitive and continues to support stable demand.
đŚ Supply Conditions Remain Controlled
Despite stable factory operations in Vietnam, the market is not experiencing oversupply.
Current observations show:
⢠raw material availability remains controlled
⢠processing output is stable but not expanding aggressively
⢠suppliers are becoming less flexible on low pricing
This indicates that the supply side is no longer exerting strong downward pressure on the market.
In previous cycles, similar conditions often preceded moderate price increases.
đ˘ Buyer Behavior Is Shifting
One of the strongest signals in May is the change in buyer psychology.
Many importers are now:
⢠locking partial volumes earlier
⢠discussing forward shipments
⢠securing key grades before peak demand periods
This behavior reflects growing concern that current prices may not remain available for long.
Historically, once buyers begin returning simultaneously after a correction phase, the market tends to move gradually upward rather than remain flat.
đ Why WW240 and WW320 Matter Most
Among all grades, WW240 and WW320 continue to receive the highest attention because they represent the core commercial grades used in:
⢠retail distribution
⢠snack production
⢠private label packaging
⢠supermarket supply chains
These grades are often the first to tighten when demand improves.
Current pricing still remains relatively competitive compared to previous peak periods, which is why many buyers are actively monitoring these categories.
đ° Will Prices Increase in Q2?
Based on current indicators, the probability of a sharp price spike remains limited. However, the market increasingly supports a scenario of:
⢠gradual upward movement
⢠stronger negotiation resistance from suppliers
⢠tighter availability for strategic grades
The expected trend for Q2 is:
not explosive growth, but controlled appreciation.
This type of market movement is often more sustainable and difficult for buyers to react to once momentum becomes obvious.
đ§ Strategic Considerations for Importers
For importers, the current environment creates a strategic decision point.
Waiting may provide small short-term advantages if prices fluctuate slightly, but it also increases exposure to:
⢠reduced availability
⢠slower shipment scheduling
⢠higher replacement cost later in Q2
As a result, many experienced buyers are adopting a balanced strategy:
⢠lock partial volume now
⢠monitor market weekly
⢠maintain flexibility for future adjustments
This reduces risk while preserving purchasing options.
đ SVC Market Perspective
From SVCâs market observation, May represents an early recovery phase rather than a completed uptrend.
The market is becoming more active, supplier confidence is improving, and buyers are beginning to secure positions again.
SVC continues supporting partners through:
⢠transparent price updates
⢠stable export planning
⢠OEM and bulk supply solutions
⢠flexible shipment scheduling
This allows buyers to make decisions based on real market conditions rather than speculation.
đ§ Contact for Quotation & Supply
đŠ thanh@svc.vn
đą (+84) 909 432 477
Request updated quotation, samples and shipment planning support.