Abstract
Coconut is grown globally over an area of 12.23 million ha producing 11.04 million MT (copra equivalent) in 93 countries in the world. The 15 member countries of the Asian and Pacific Coconut Community (APCC) account for a major share of area and production occupying 10.7 million ha (87%) and 9.2 million MT of copra equivalent (82.81%). Indonesia, Philippines and India are the major producers of coconut in the world. The area and productivity of coconut are almost at a standstill at the global level during past 5 years (2003-2008). However, there has been an increase in nut production in some APCC member countries. The major coconut products traded in the world market are coconut oil, desiccated coconut, coconut milk, cream and milk powder, shell charcoal, activated carbon, coir and coir products. Meanwhile, tender coconut water as sports drink/energy drink, virgin coconut oil (VCO), coconut flour, and oleo chemicals are some of the emerging products. Nata de coco, coconut vinegar, coconut syrup based products have also entered the international market.Coconut is grown globally over an area of 12.23 million ha producing 11.04 million MT (copra equivalent) in 93 countries in the world. The 15 member countries of the Asian and Pacific Coconut Community (APCC) account for a major share of area and production occupying 10.7 million ha (87%) and 9.2 million MT of copra equivalent (82.81%). Indonesia, Philippines and India are the major producers of coconut in the world. The area and productivity of coconut are almost at a standstill at the global level during past 5 years (2003-2008). However, there has been an increase in nut production in some APCC member countries. The major coconut products traded in the world market are coconut oil, desiccated coconut, coconut milk, cream and milk powder, shell charcoal, activated carbon, coir and coir products. Meanwhile, tender coconut water as sports drink/energy drink, virgin coconut oil (VCO), coconut flour, and oleo chemicals are some of the emerging products. Nata de coco, coconut vinegar, coconut syrup based products have also entered the international market.