Govt Approves Measures to Import Coconut Products

The Cabinet directed the Ministries of Industries and Plantation to explore immediate imports while ensuring adherence to legal provisions.

Cabinet Spokesman, Minister Nalinda Jayathissa, revealed that the country’s annual coconut requirement stands at approximately 3,000 million coconuts. However, the total production for 2024 is expected to fall short, reaching only around 2,650 million coconuts. This decline in production has been attributed to adverse weather conditions, pest infestations, and issues related to fertilizer usage.

The Minister noted that out of the total production, about 1,400 million coconuts are typically used for industrial purposes, while 1,500 million are consumed domestically. To mitigate the impact on industries and the market, the Cabinet has approved the importation of coconut products equivalent to 200 million coconuts.

The decision follows consultations with key authorities, including the Department of Agriculture and the Coconut Development Authority. New guidelines have been established for importing chilled coconut kernel, dried coconut pieces with coconut milk, milk powder, and desiccated coconut. The move is expected to stabilize the market and ensure the continuity of coconut-based industries in the country.