India’s coconut sector is emerging as a major global growth engine, evolving from a traditional farming activity into a diversified and increasingly export-oriented industry. The sector supports the livelihoods of nearly 30 million people, including around 10 million farmers, while creating new opportunities through value addition, processing and international trade.
India ranks first globally in coconut production, accounting for 31.24 per cent of global output. The country produced around 20,301.22 million coconuts in 2024-25 across approximately 2.19 million hectares, underlining the scale and importance of the sector to the rural economy.
The sector’s export performance has also strengthened significantly. Exports of coconut products rose 62 per cent to Rs. 7,038.35 crore in FY26 from Rs. 4,349.03 crore in the previous year. The export basket has expanded beyond traditional products to include virgin coconut oil, coconut milk, coconut water, activated carbon, fresh and frozen coconut, copra and other value-added products.
The Coconut Development Board, which is responsible for promoting the integrated development of the coconut industry, had registered 8,700 coconut product exporters by July 31, 2026. The growing number of exporters reflects the expanding role of processing and value addition in India’s coconut economy.
Government initiatives are focusing on improving production, productivity, farmer incomes and value addition across the coconut value chain. During 2025-26, Rs. 147.21 crore was released for activities under the Coconut Development Board, while 11 Demonstration-cum-Seed Production Farms produced around 2.41 lakh quality seedlings.
Around 2,175 hectares were brought under new coconut cultivation during 2025-26, supported by Rs. 632.77 lakh for plantation establishment and maintenance. The Productivity Improvement through Coconut-based Cropping System covered 18,800 hectares and benefited 48,696 farmers.
The Replanting and Rejuvenation of Coconut Gardens programme has also covered 25,517 hectares over five years, helping strengthen the productivity and long-term sustainability of coconut cultivation.
The Union Budget 2026-27 further announced the Coconut Promotion Scheme as part of a Rs. 350 crore allocation for high-value agriculture. The initiative is aimed at supporting quality planting material, plantation expansion, rejuvenation, crop-health management and integrated processing.
With rising exports, expanding value-added production and continued government support, India’s coconut industry is gaining greater importance in the country’s agricultural and rural economy. The sector is expected to create more opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs and exporters while strengthening India’s position as a leading global supplier of coconut and coir-based products.
