Thai fragrant coconut supply expected to recover by mid-March 2025

Fragrant coconut, a famous specialty of Thailand, is loved for its sweet coconut water, smooth coconut meat and characteristic aroma. This coconut variety is strictly protected in Thailand, banning the export of seedlings. Young coconuts have a fruiting cycle every 22-26 days, ensuring a year-round supply. However, the supply of Thai coconuts has been disrupted for a long time due to weather effects. In 2023 and 2024, Thailand's fragrant coconut production suffered a serious shortage due to the El Niño and La Niña phenomena. This impact is still lasting and affecting the supply. Normally, from October of the previous year to January of the following year is the time when coconut production is at its highest and prices are the cheapest. However, this season, coconut production is still low, leading to prices at farms doubling compared to previous years. Currently, the price of coconut in the market is about 40-50% higher than previous years, especially in major export markets ...