A theme decoration of the China International Import Expo (CIIE) at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) in Shanghai, east China, 3 November 2025. (Photo: Fang Zhe)
Cashew nuts from Gambia, recently approved for entry into the Chinese market, made their debut at the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE).
“Over the past three years, cashew consumption in China has increased significantly, revealing immense business potential,” said Moses Sonko, CEO of Smiling Coast Agro Processing Company.
The Gambia’s hot, arid climate provides ideal conditions for growing cashew nuts. “We grow our own cashews and process them directly at the production site. Freshness and natural flavor are the main strengths of our cashews,” continued Mr. Sonko.
At the 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in June this year, China signed protocols with Africa, approving imports of Gambian cashew nuts, Malawian macadamia nuts, Ethiopian soybean meal and Congolese peanuts to China.
“The CIIE is one of the largest trade fairs in the world and is one of the most effective ways for African agricultural products to access the Chinese market, showcase their products and build relationships with customers,” said Sonko.
This year, the CIIE created for the first time a zone dedicated to Asian and African products from least developed countries in order to broaden their access to the Chinese market. This initiative helps African countries with which China maintains diplomatic relations to take full advantage of China’s policy of completely exempting taxable products from customs duties. More than 110 companies participate in this zone, of which more than 90 come from 30 least developed countries.
