<p>In the long run, guarantee of food safety and hygiene should become a mandatory requirement for cashew exporters. It is a way to improve cashew export value, he said.</p> <p>There are now about 100 cashew processing plants nationwide, but there are 330 cashew exporters, with only 22 having been granted ISO or HACCP certifications. A recent inspection by Vinacas and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development finds many production facilities falling short of food safety and hygiene standards set by Circular 75 of the agriculture ministry.</p> <p>Previously, Vinacas proposed only cashew processors with an annual capacity of 2,500 tons or above are qualified for export, but it has evoked angry responses. If the proposal was passed, 150 cashew traders, almost half of the total, would have to leave the playground.</p> <p>“The idea of compulsory 2,500-ton capacity was thought up by 16 enterprises, and Vinacas included it in the draft decree to ask for opinions. However, this condition incurred displeasure, so we will eliminate it,” said Thanh.</p> <p>Conditional export is indispensable not only in the cashew industry, but also in other farm produce industries. Therefore, Vinacas will continue to work towards this goal, he stated.</p> <p> </p>