<p>“There was a time when India was the largest producer and exporter of cashew nuts in the world. However over the years Vietnam overtook in cashew nut production and today it does three times the exports of India. As for Goan cashews, the state has only 45 odd processing units but created a brand name in the national and international market,” said veteran of Goa’s cashew industry, Suresh Zantye.He was speaking on Friday during the curtain raiser to the fifth edition of Kaju India, the global cashew summit to be held in Goa from September 17 to September 19.</p> <p>Zantye said, “Goan cashews get the highest price for exports but unfortunately local production is low.” Over 400 stakeholders of the Indian cashew industry will be arriving in Goa for the three-day summit alongwith representatives from over 25 cashew importing countries.The summit organised by the Cashew Export Promotion Council of India (CEPCI) will deliberate on the importance of mechanisation and automation. It will have a live machinery exhibition along with sessions on different aspects of the industry.</p> <p>Speaking to the media, P Sundaram, chairman, CEPCI, said that Goa is chosen as venue for the summit on account of its historical connect, as it was the first state to grow cashews brought by the Portuguese.The Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar will inaugurate the summit while Suresh Prabhu, Minister for Commerce and Industry will present the export excellence awards. The keynote address will be given by J Mercykutty Amma, Minister for Cashew Industry, Kerala. Kaju India is a two year event bringing together all stakeholders in the industry. The brain storming sessions during the summit are designed to achieve accelerated growth in production and exports.The media briefing was attended by senior office bearers of CEPCI including, Dr RK Bhoodes, vice chairman and S Kanan, executive director.</p>