<p></p><p>The Cashew Export Promotion Council of India is leading an 18-member delegation to attend the AFI annual convention at Naples, Florida, USA, to be held on May 1 and 2. The objective of the delegation is to study the current market trends/consumption pattern and preferences and strengthen India’s trade with the US on cashew kernels and allied products.</p> <p>Though India has been traditionally supplying high quality cashew kernels to the US, the country’s export to that country has been affected by global recession during the past couple of years. Vietnam has taken position as the lead supplier to this region since last few years. The US has been the major importer of Indian cashews and at present accounts for approximately 30 per cent of total export of cashew kernels from India. Cashew kernel exports to the US in 2013 were to the tune of 34,282 tonnes against 33,344 tonnes in 2012. </p><p>The 13-member delegation, led by T.K. Shahal Hassan Musaliar, Chairman, CEPCI, will meet with the prospective cashew nut buyers, roasters, importers, salters, traders, etc. The council is also organising Cashew Confluence – a networking meeting during the convention, which would be a premier gathering of Indian cashew kernel exporters participating in AFI 2014, prospective buyers and all those who are concerned with cashew around the world. </p><p>The AFI annual convention organised every year addresses the critical issues affecting the food industry and provides a platform for business industries to raise their issues. The convention also offers a programme presented by industry leaders on the latest issues and provides an opportunity to learn about the current and future initiatives and regulations that will influence tomorrow's success.<br></p><p></p>