1. Indonesia
Indonesia is the world’s largest exporter of coconuts, with exports valued at $2.5 billion in 2024. The tropical climate and extensive coastline provides ideal conditions for coconut cultivation across the Indonesian archipelago. Coconut oil comprises over 60% of the country’s coconut exports. Indonesia accounts for over 55% of global supply of coconut oil. The large-scale production and low labor costs give Indonesia a competitive advantage. However, erratic weather conditions and fluctuating demand has impacted exports occasionally.
2. Philippines
The Philippines comes second among top global coconut exporters, with exports worth $1.3 billion in 2024. The government has actively promoted coconut production, expanding cultivated area by over 5% annually. Exports increased by 12% in 2024 compared to the previous year. Coconut oil, copra and fresh coconuts comprise the major export commodities. The Philippines has also emerged as a leading exporter of desiccated coconut and coconut water in recent years due to increasing processing capacity.
3. India
India, renowned as the ‘coconut country’, is the third largest exporter with exports valued at $1 billion in 2024. The southern states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh account for over 70% of production. India exports a variety of coconut products including coconut oil, copra and desiccated coconut to over 90 countries. Exports of coconut water and milk powder have risen substantially as their popularity increases globally. India’s export promotion policies have accelerated growth of processed coconut products exports.
4. Vietnam
Vietnam has rapidly increased coconut exports over the past decade, emerging as the fourth largest exporter globally. Desiccated coconut comprises over 85% of exports, valued at $650 million in 2024. Vietnam has steadily gained market share in North America and Europe for desiccated coconut, owing to investments in processing technology and quality standards compliance. Coconut milk and coconut water exports have also increased significantly. However, lack of advanced shipping and logistics infrastructure remains a key challenge.
5. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, blessed with natural advantages for coconut cultivation, is the fifth largest exporter. Exports were worth $600 million in 2024, registering a 5% decline from previous year due to adverse weather conditions. Coconut oil usually accounts for around 60% of total exports. Sri Lanka exports several value-added products like coconut water, milk powder and sap to diversify exports. The country aims to increase production through expansion into new areas to boost exports.
6. Mexico
Among Central American countries, Mexico is a leading exporter, ranked sixth globally. It exports predominantly to the USA, relying on proximity and trade agreements for competitive advantage. Total exports were valued at $400 million in 2024, consisting mainly of coconut oil, fresh coconuts and coconut water. Government and private sector investments into processing facilities have enhanced production capabilities in recent years.
7. Thailand
Thailand is emerging as a foremost exporter of processed coconut products like coconut milk, water and sugar. Exports reached $380 million in 2024. Thailand has continuously gained global market share, especially in North American and European markets, by positioning itself as a supplier of high quality, value-added coconut products. More product diversification is underway to reduce dependence on traditional exports like coconut oil.
8. Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea is another rapidly growing exporter, with over 20% export growth in 2024 to reach $240 million. Copra comprises 60% of total exports. The country has abundant land suitable for expansion of coconut cultivation. The government has provided subsidies and training to farmers to increase productivity and quality. Significant scope exists for food processing companies to set up operations to boost exports.
9.10. Dominican Republic and Ghana
Among non-Asian countries, Dominican Republic and Ghana are leading exporters. The Dominican Republic has a thriving coconut water and milk export industry catering to North America and Europe. Total exports were worth $200 million in 2024. Ghana’s exports rose to $150 million in 2024 driven by surging demand for coconut oil and copra. Investments in processing infrastructure have helped scale up exports.
The top 10 countries accounted for around 80% of total global coconut exports in 2024. With increasing health consciousness and popularity of coconut-based foods globally, these leading exporters are focused on raising productivity, product quality and expanding processing capabilities to further grow exports.
