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WHAT IS WORLD COCONUT DAY?
World Coconut Day is celebrated annually on the 2nd of September to recognize the importance and benefits of coconuts and to promote awareness about the significance of the coconut industry. The day is observed in countries that produce coconuts, where the crop plays a crucial role in the economy, culture, and livelihoods of many communities.
World Coconut Day aims to raise awareness about the versatility and economic importance of coconuts. It highlights the various products derived from coconuts, such as coconut oil, coconut water, copra, and other value-added products.
The day focuses on the challenges faced by coconut farmers and seeks to promote sustainable farming practices. It also emphasizes the need for better infrastructure, technology, and support to enhance productivity and income for smallholder farmers.
World Coconut Day promotes research and development in the coconut sector. This includes improving pest and disease management, developing new coconut varieties, and enhancing processing technologies to add value to coconut products.
PNG COCONUT INDUSTRY
The coconut industry in Papua New Guinea (PNG) is regulated by the Kokonas Indastri Koporesen (KIK), which
focuses on research, pest and disease control, agronomy, product diversification, and marketing. The industry
supports local farmers through training and development programs, promoting high-value coconut products in
international markets.
Attending a world coconut expo in PNG offers numerous benefits, including networking with industry leaders,
discovering innovative products and technologies, and exploring investment opportunities. Visitors can gain insights
into sustainable practices and the diverse uses of coconuts, contributing to global industry growth.
Key Aspects of the Coconut Industry
Production and Export:
- The main products include copra, crude coconut oil (CNO), and copra meal.
- Major copra-producing provinces are East New Britain, Autonomous Region of Bougainville (ARoB), New Ireland, West New Britain, Milne Bay, and Madang.
- Export destinations have shifted, with the Philippines, Bangladesh, Singapore, and Malaysia being significant markets.
Value Addition and Diversification:
- Recent years have seen a shift towards downstream processing and value addition, producing white copra,
- virgin coconut oil (VCO), and other high-value products like coconut soap, hair oils, lotions, cooking oil, and flour .
Challenges and Initiatives:
- The industry faces challenges such as pest and disease management, climate change impacts, and infrastructure issues.
- Initiatives include the Coconut Replanting/New Planting Program, development of model farms, establishment of nurseries, and training programs to enhance production and quality
