Indonesia to rejuvenate 9,000 hectares of coconut plantations by 2027

The Indonesian government is planning to rejuvenate 9,000 hectares of coconut plantations in 2027 to address the issue of aging crops and boost national productivity. This initiative is part of the Coconut Area Development Plan 2027, which aims to develop a total area of 51,721 hectares, including 42,721 hectares of plantation expansion.

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan stated that the program will focus on developing superior seed varieties capable of bearing fruit within three years, compared to the traditional six to seven years. This speed is intended to ensure Indonesia remains competitive with regional producers like Thailand. The development is expected to span various regions, including Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Maluku, and Papua.

The push for increased productivity is driven by rising international demand for coconut derivatives. Beyond traditional food uses, the coconut industry is seeing growth in the food and beverage sectors, such as the increasing use of coconut milk as a milk substitute in coffee products across China, India, and other parts of Asia.