Challenges Persist for Indonesia's Desiccated Coconut Industry Due to Stagnant Prices and Export Dilemmas

The price of low-fat grade, fine-sized desiccated coconut from Indonesia remains stagnant within the range set at the beginning of this year. However, the cost of its raw material, the mature coconut, has risen by approximately 20%. Although producers anticipate a minimum price hike of 10%, they face tough price competition in the export market, particularly from the Philippines and other countries. Consequently, in this scenario, producers are inclined to limit exports and await more favorable prices.