The Race to Restock: “Bình Phước Cashews” in High Demand Ahead of Tết

For those who are looking to buy delicious Binh Phuoc cashews as gifts for their loved ones abroad, Ms. Nguyen Thi Nhung, a resident of Hoc Mon District, Ho Chi Minh City, was confused by the significant price discrepancy among products that were supposedly the same: roasted and firewood-roasted cashews, a specialty of Binh Phuoc.

While they were all advertised as the natural specialty of Binh Phuoc with the skin intact, some were priced at VND 100,000/500gr, while others were almost VND 250,000/500gr. Cashews packaged in round boxes with floral arrangements were also cheaper than those in plastic boxes or zip bags. Moreover, in the community groups Ms. Nhung participated in, many people were selling cashews labeled as “Binh Phuoc specialty” for only VND 80,000/500gr.

“I was overwhelmed by the vast differences in pricing, so I decided to buy from a supermarket to ensure the origin and feel more confident about giving them as gifts,” Ms. Nhung shared.

When Ms. Nhung’s query was directed to Mr. Bach Khanh Nhut, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Cashew Association (Vinacas), it was revealed that cashews exported abroad must meet certain criteria and standards. Mr. Nhut shared that the chaotic pricing and quality of cashews in the domestic market have been discussed at industry conferences, but the situation remains unchanged.

According to Mr. Nhut, manufacturers currently self-register and self-declare product quality standards as per state regulations before selling in the market. The varying prices depend on multiple factors, and buyers can choose products that fit their budget and needs.

Several cashew production facilities in Binh Phuoc Province revealed that most of the cashews sold in the market are from Cambodia and Indonesia but are marketed as “Binh Phuoc cashews” or “Binh Phuoc old cashews.”

“Binh Phuoc cashews have a very limited supply, and they are sweeter and richer than Cambodian and Indonesian cashews, hence the higher price. Most facilities import Cambodian cashews for processing and packaging in Binh Phuoc, then sell them under the Binh Phuoc cashew brand,” explained a facility specializing in producing cashews for the domestic market.

According to this facility, the price discrepancy in the market also depends on the packaging format: zip packaging maintains 100% of the weight, making it more expensive; round mica boxes vary in weight (some as heavy as 200-250gr), affecting the quantity of cashews inside and, thus, the price. Additionally, the presence of broken or defective cashews in the product can also influence the price.

“Consumers should opt for reputable supermarkets, stores, or trusted addresses that can guarantee and address any feedback on quality,” advised the facility owner.