In Ho Chi Minh City and the southern provinces, coconut consumption has increased during the hot season. Despite higher retail prices, warehouse owners are reporting ongoing difficulties sourcing sufficient supply. Some special coconut varieties priced at approximately US$0.80 per fruit are currently out of stock, doubling the price from mid-2024 levels.
General Secretary Cao Ba Dang Khoa of the Vietnam Coconut Association stated that fresh coconut prices have increased by 110% year-over-year, while dried coconut prices are up by 150%.
Importers from China, Malaysia, and Thailand are actively sourcing Vietnamese coconuts. The opening of the US and Chinese markets has led to increased interest. Nguyen Dinh Tung, General Director of Vina T&T Company, reported that the firm exports around 30 containers of coconuts to China each month.
In Ben Tre Province, output during the off-season has decreased by 50%, according to the local Department of Agriculture and Environment. Coconut processing companies with export contracts, particularly to the US and EU, are currently increasing raw coconut procurement. Prices for by-products such as coconut water, shells, and fiber have also risen.
Ben Tre authorities are expanding green coconut cultivation to support a sustainable supply chain. The province has over 133 coded coconut-growing areas and 14 coded packaging facilities for exports to China. Ben Tre's coconut-growing area covers approximately 80,000 hectares, yielding nearly 700,000 tons annually. Dry coconut comprises 80% of the area, with drinking types covering around 16,000 hectares.
Source: Saigon News