India stands as the world’s third-largest producer of coconuts, contributing approximately 31.45% to global production. In the fiscal year 2022-2023, the country produced an impressive 19,310 million nuts, underscoring its pivotal role in the global coconut industry. This substantial production not only caters to domestic consumption but also positions India as a significant player in the international coconut export market.

The Coconut Development Board (CDB), operating under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, has been instrumental in enhancing India’s coconut exports. Through strategic initiatives in market research, participation in trade fairs, and global promotion, the CDB has effectively expanded the reach of Indian coconut products worldwide.

Market Research Initiatives by CDB

Understanding market dynamics is crucial for any export-oriented sector. The CDB has established a comprehensive system for market data collection. Market Intelligence Cells located in regional offices and the headquarters gather real-time data on market prices of major coconut products. This data is disseminated through social media and bulk SMS to stakeholders, enabling informed decision-making. Additionally, the Board undertakes studies on the prospects of coconut products, including value chain analyses, productivity assessments, and impact evaluations of various schemes. These studies are often conducted in collaboration with research institutes, ensuring a robust and data-driven approach to market expansion.

Participation in Trade Fairs and Exhibitions

Trade fairs and exhibitions serve as vital platforms for showcasing products and establishing business connections. The CDB actively participates in national and international exhibitions to promote Indian coconut products. For instance, the Board participated in the Mathya Mela Exhibition during the 78th Foundation Day of ICAR-CMFRI from February 1st to 3rd, 2025. Such events provide an excellent opportunity to highlight the potential of Indian coconut products to a diverse audience.

Moreover, the CDB organizes Buyer-Seller Meets, facilitating direct interactions between producers and potential buyers. These initiatives not only enhance market access but also help in understanding buyer requirements and preferences, leading to better product alignment with market demands.

Global Promotion Efforts

To position Indian coconut products in the global market, the CDB undertakes various promotional activities. These include campaigns, advertisements, and participation in international trade negotiations. The Board also maintains showcases of coconut products in foreign missions, providing a continuous display of India’s coconut industry capabilities. Additionally, the CDB has instituted the “Award for Export Excellence” to recognize and motivate exporters who have significantly contributed to taking Indian coconut products to different parts of the globe.

Impact on India’s Coconut Exports

These concerted efforts have yielded positive results. In the fiscal year 2022-2023, India’s exports of coconut products were valued at ₹3,555 crore (approximately US$427.3 million), marking a 9.8% increase from the previous year. The major export destinations include Vietnam, the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh, Malaysia, and the United States. The top export categories comprise coir bristle fiber, desiccated coconuts, and fresh coconuts.

Altus Exports: Facilitating Global Reach for Indian Manufacturers

While the CDB lays the foundation for market expansion, companies like Altus Exports play a crucial role in bridging the gap between Indian manufacturers and international markets. Altus Exports specializes in facilitating the export of high-quality Indian products, including coconut-based items, to global destinations.

How Indian Manufacturers Can Partner with Altus Exports

Indian manufacturers aiming to expand their global footprint can benefit from a partnership with Altus Exports in the following ways:

1. Market Access: Altus Exports has an extensive network of international buyers and distributors, providing manufacturers with immediate access to diverse markets.
2. Compliance and Documentation: Navigating international trade regulations can be complex. Altus Exports offers expertise in compliance and handles all necessary documentation, ensuring a smooth export process.
3. Logistics Support: With a robust logistics infrastructure, Altus Exports manages the efficient transportation of goods, ensuring timely delivery and maintaining product integrity.
4. Market Intelligence: Leveraging market insights, Altus Exports assists manufacturers in understanding global trends, enabling them to tailor their products to meet international standards and consumer preferences.

Manufacturers interested in exploring a partnership can learn more by visiting Altus Exports’ manufacturer partnership page.

Conclusion

The collaborative efforts of the Coconut Development Board in market research, trade fairs, and global promotion have significantly bolstered India’s coconut exports. By partnering with facilitators like Altus Exports, Indian manufacturers can further capitalize on these initiatives, ensuring their products reach a wider international audience and contribute to the sustained growth of India’s coconut industry.