Sri Lanka to import coconut kernel products to address shortage

February 5, 2025 at 12:59 PM

The government has approved measures to import coconut kernel products and dried coconut pieces to support local industries and consumers amid a coconut production shortfall.

The Cabinet instructed the Ministries of Industries and Plantation to explore immediate imports while ensuring compliance with legal provisions.

Cabinet Spokesman Minister Nalinda Jayathissa said that the decision was
“The annual requirement of coconuts is around 3,000 coconuts in Sri Lanka. However, the total production in Sri Lanka in 2024 was around 2,650 million coconuts,” the Minister said. The Minister said the low yield was due to adverse weather, pests and fertiliser issues. 1400 million of these coconuts are generally used for industrial purposes, while 1500 are for domestic consumption, Minister Jayathissa said.

Following consultations with relevant authorities, including the Department of Agriculture and the Coconut Development Authority, guidelines were established for importing chilled coconut kernel, dried coconut pieces with coconut (Non-copra) coconut milk, milk powder, and desiccated coconut, the government said.

Accordingly, the Cabinet has approved importing the equivalent of 200 million coconuts to stabilize the market and sustain coconut-based industries. (Newswire)