Philippines seeks West African markets for coconut products
A shipment to Liberia involved 50 metric tons of young coconuts, with a combined free-on-board value of US$22,400.
The Philippines’ Department of Agriculture (DA) is seeking markets across West Africa for coconut products after young coconuts were shipped to Liberia. The department said the delivery could create openings for exports to countries neighbouring Liberia.
The shipment arose from a partnership involving the DA and Avante Agri-Products Philippines Inc., which is based in Davao City. According to the department, Avante sent 50 metric tons of whole green young coconuts to Monrovia in two refrigerated containers, each measuring 40 feet. Their combined free-on-board value was US$22,400.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said access to overseas markets and partnerships with private businesses were important to agricultural competitiveness and farmers’ livelihoods. He said the challenge was to develop lasting demand from initial deliveries so that coconut farmers could earn better returns.
Liberia’s Ministry of Agriculture is facilitating the shipment, while CMA CGM is using its Smart Reefer Container technology to preserve freshness in transit. The coconuts were intended as donations for rural Liberian communities, supporting feeding programmes and providing household benefits.
