The Coconut Development Authority (CDA), the apex body responsible for the development of the coconut industry aims at doubling the revenue from coconut exports this year according to a top official of the CDA.
“We have the potential, ability and skills to double the income from coconut and king coconut exports for which we have launched a program to revitalise the industry,” CDA Chairman Shantha Ranathunga told the ‘King Coconut Exporters Forum’ in Colombo last week.
The forum was held on the theme “Golden Drops to the World: Empowering King Coconut Export Excellence.”
Revenue from coconut exports last year was USD 854 million and income from king coconuts was USD 8 million despite a sharp drop in yields.
Data from the Export Development Board indicate a double-digit growth in export earnings from coconut and related products between January and November.
Sri Lanka exports coconut oil, desiccated coconut, coconut milk powder, coconut cream, liquid coconut milk, coco peat, and activated carbon all of which recorded double-digit growth in export revenue in November last year.
“Our goal is to double the income from the export of coconuts and king coconuts this year,” Ranathunga said, adding that recouping from the shortage of nuts will take some time.
Coconut production suffered significant setbacks, dropping by 33.1 percent in December 2024 and 32.2 percent in January 2025. This ongoing supply issue drove coconut prices up, with the households now paying nearly Rs. 200 per nut.
The ‘King Coconut Exporters Forum’ brought together industry pioneers, regulatory experts, and export leaders for a comprehensive dialogue on strengthening the global footprint of Sri Lanka’s king coconut.
The CDA Chairman delivered the inaugural address.
A thought-provoking workshop titled “Premium Taste, Premium Price: Own the Thambili Advantage!” was conducted by negotiation expert Tissa Dissanayaka, Founder of the Boston Negotiation Group. This workshop guided exporters on unlocking the commercial value of king coconut by mastering positioning, pricing, and branding in the global market.
The highlight was the Exchange Forum, an open, moderated session allowing exporters to raise real-time challenges regarding pricing, logistics, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance. Several pivotal decisions were made to propel the king coconut export industry forward such as the formation of the King Coconut Exporters Association. The Association will be set up to unify exporters, with the Director of Marketing Development, Research, of the CDA appointed as the liaison officer. Regular meetings will be held at the CDA to ensure continuous dialogue and development.
Enhanced Quality Standards was another decision made where the circumference standard for king coconuts to be exported will be increased from14.5 inches to15.5 inches, effective immediately, to meet international market expectations and enhance product competitiveness.
