Mekong Delta Coconut Prices Drop Sharply as Farmers Face Heavy Losses

Fresh and dried coconut prices across the Mekong Delta have dropped significantly, causing substantial losses for local growers.

Currently, fresh coconuts (for drinking) are selling at around 30,000 VND per dozen (12 fruits), which is 10,000 VND lower per dozen compared to last month. At this price level, farmers are suffering heavy losses. The sharp decline is attributed to the rainy and flood season, during which demand for beverages typically weakens, resulting in sluggish market consumption.

After remaining at a record high of 230,000 VND per dozen, dried coconuts have now fallen to only 60,000–70,000 VND per dozen more than 120,000 VND lower than the previous month. With such prices, growers of dried coconuts earn no profit.

The drop in dried coconut prices stems from increased yields during the rainy season, coupled with the fact that many processing enterprises have imported additional raw materials, creating an oversupply situation.

The Mekong Delta currently has more than 180,000 hectares of coconut plantations, producing nearly 2 million tonnes annually. Vinh Long Province has the largest coconut-growing area, with about 120,000 hectares and more than 22 million trees, accounting for over 50% of the nation’s total coconut area.To stabilise output and improve value, local authorities encourage farmers to expand organic coconut cultivation while supporting enterprises involved in producing and exporting coconut-based products.