Activated carbon boosts India’s coconut and product exports by 41% in FY22

India's coconut and product exports, driven by increased shipments of activated carbon, saw a significant surge in the 2021-22 fiscal year, with revenue reaching Rs 3,237 crore, up by over 41% from the previous year. The United States was the primary market for activated carbon, which is widely used in gold extraction and purification, contributing to revenue of Rs 2,064 crore. Besides the US, countries like Germany, Russia, Korea, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Canada also imported the product. Coconut oil and fractions were the second-most exported product, earning Rs 430 crore. However, the industry faces challenges with the Rugose Spiralling Whitefly attacking coconut trees. The imports of coconut and products into the country reached Rs 728 crore, led by coconut oil cake and oil cake expeller varieties. Activated carbon is produced from carbonaceous material like charcoal, made from organic plant materials such as coconut shells and wood. While generally considered safe, activated charcoal can cause side effects like vomiting, especially with sorbitol, and in extreme cases, bowel blockages.