As of late October 2024, the price of whole coconuts in Indragiri Hilir Regency has risen significantly. This surge is attributed to limited supply, which has strained the ability to meet both domestic and international market demands.
Reports indicate that the shortage of raw coconut materials has directly impacted processing industries, including coconut oil production and its derivatives. This situation has raised concerns among farmers and industry players, as coconuts are a key economic driver for many communities in the region.
Additionally, a lack of shipping containers for agricultural exports, including coconuts, has added to logistical costs. This has pushed up the global selling price of Indonesian coconut products, ultimately affecting their competitiveness in international markets.
The government and stakeholders are urged to implement strategic measures to address this shortage, such as enhancing coconut production through plantation revitalization programs and improving supply chain efficiency. These efforts are critical to stabilizing prices, ensuring coconut availability in the market, and improving the welfare of farmers and related industries.
