THE strength of the European market for coconut products will mitigate the disruption brought about by US tariffs, according to Marco C. Reyes, chairman of the United Coconut Association (UCA).
Mr. Reyes said at a briefing during the 2025 World Coconut Congress at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City that the industry must seize opportunities presented by the “surging” demand for “sustainability and healthy products,” noting that the coconut “is at the heart of this moment. Our mission is to bridge that international demand with innovation and sustainable practices to ensure that the entire value chain continues to thrive.”
Mr. Reyes said concerns about US tariffs can be allayed somewhat because Europe is actually the top importer of coconut products, with coconut oil being highly profitable.
China and Japan are also growing partners in the trade in coconut products, he said.
Mr. Reyes also said that while negotiations are ongoing to lower tariffs for certain Philippine products, the coconut industry is focusing on other opportunities.
Mr. Reyes said the industry is in contact with other industries, including livestock and rice farming, to make the broader agricultural sector more sustainable.
Agriculture Undersecretary Roger V. Navarro said at the congress that the industry needs to be sustained through a replanting program in the face of threats from climate change, the ageing tree stock, and waning interest in farming among the younger generations.
Mr. Navarro, who oversees operations for the Department of Agriculture (DA), added: “We must act urgently” in “taking out all policies and regulations that hinder development.”
“You mustn’t just accept what your farmers give you. You must make sure farmers can replant.” Mr. Navarro said.
Mr. Navarro called for protecting the industry during years of low yields, citing the industry’s importance to around 3.2 million Filipinos across 82 provinces.
The congress gathers coconut farmers, processors, exporters, researchers, policymakers and investors, drawing representatives from 20 countries.
The Philippines was among the top exporters of coconut products in 2024, with output valued at $2.66 billion, mostly coconut oil, which accounted for $2.2 billion.
Coconut oil is currently the Philippines’ fifth-leading exported commodity by value, with exports amounting to $1.38 billion in the first half.
The congress runs until Sept. 26. — Andre Christopher H. Alampay
