Understanding the Coconut Supply Shortage in Ben Tre, Vietnam

We would like to inform our valued customers and partners that during March and April 2025, the raw coconut supply from Ben Tre, Vietnam’s largest coconut-producing province, has been facing a significant shortage.

The primary cause of this disruption is a widespread outbreak of the black-headed caterpillar (Opisina arenosella), a highly destructive pest that has rapidly spread across coconut plantations in the region. These caterpillars feed on the green epidermis of coconut leaves, causing them to dry out, weakening the trees and significantly reducing coconut yields. In many areas, farmers have reported yield losses of 20–50%.

In addition to the pest outbreak, saltwater intrusion—driven by prolonged drought and climate change—has further stressed the trees, intensifying the decline in productivity.

Despite increasing market prices for coconuts, many local farmers are struggling to maintain healthy crops and recover from the damage. Agricultural authorities and local communities are working hard to develop biological and mechanical control solutions, but effective results will take time.

As a result, the available supply of raw coconuts has become increasingly limited, affecting the entire supply chain, including production schedules and export operations.

Green Cocolim are closely monitoring the situation and working with all stakeholders to find sustainable long-term solutions. We remain fully committed to ensuring product quality and reliability, even during this challenging period.

We sincerely appreciate your continued support and understanding as we navigate this situation together.