Sri Lanka Coconut Kernel Products Exports Up in March

Data from Sri Lanka Coconut Development Authority show the country’s coconut kernel products export leaped 19% in March to Rs9,565.21 million (USD43.39 million) from Rs8,026,31 million (USD41.32 million) in a similar month a year ago.  The five major exports turned in Rs7,959.63 million (USD36.11 million), topping by 15% prior year at Rs6,916.65 million (USD35.60 million).  The combined earnings of the top exports represented 83% of total kernel products turnover during the month.

Coconut milk remained the leading export earner, turning in Rs2,393.58 million from overseas purchases of 5,193 MT.  This represents a 22% increase in last year value at Rs1,969.66 million and a marginal 1% gain in volume at 5,156 MT.  Following closely was desiccated coconut with income at Rs2,276.57 million (+22% from Rs1,859.94 million) from sale of 3,822 MT (+22% from 3,124 MT).  Virgin coconut oil was top three but saw shortfalls in earnings at Rs1,405.45 million (-1% from Rs1,416.11 million) and tonnage at 1,220 MT (-10% from 1,361 MT).  Coconut cream was fourth and recorded the highest revenue growth at Rs1,033.73 million (+35% from Rs765.93 million) and substantial increase in orders at 1,905 MT (+22% from 1,563 MT).  The fifth major export coconut milk powder also saw reduced income and shipment at Rs850.30 million (-6% from Rs905.01 million) and 653 MT (-13% from 751 MT), respectively.  

January-March export of coconut kernel products accumulated to Rs23,536.93 million (USD106.78 million), surpassing by 26% prior year at Rs18,700.18 million (USD96.56 million).  All the top five exports exceeded previous year export receipts as well as traded volumes.  The latter is shown following, in MT, in order of volume traded:  coconut milk 14,808 (13,266), desiccated coconut 9,859 (6,937), coconut cream 4,831 (3,731), virgin coconut oil 3,186 (2,932), coconut milk powder 2,131 (1,939).