The Coconut Research Institute has warned that the current drop in coconut production is expected to continue until April 2025. Director Dr. Nayani Arachchige reported a significant decrease in production compared to last year, largely due to insufficient rainfall and higher temperatures in coconut-growing regions.

“Production has dropped noticeably in the first three harvest cycles this year due to low rainfall and high temperatures,” Dr. Arachchige said. “We expect lower yields until next April.”

To tackle the shortage, the Coconut Development Authority has submitted a proposal with the suggestion that fresh coconuts be sold through the Colombo Fresh Coconut Auction, with an auction price set at Rs. 100 as a temporary solution for this instance.