Riding the wave of the coconut water demand surge

The global demand for coconuts and their value-added products has been consistently growing in recent years. So much so that coconut has become a main staple in the international food market scene, capturing developed and emerging markets with its health benefits and product versatility. These products include a variety of product types and forms such as coconut oil, coconut water, coconut milk, and desiccated coconut, among others.

According to market research firm Mordor Intelligence, the entire global market for coconut was valued at US$8.33 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach US$12 billion in size by 2030. Out of that global market size, the Philippines’ share stood at US$2 billion annually from 2020-2024. The Philippines is blessed with natural endowments like ideal soil health and a tropical climate that are conducive to coconut cultivation, paving the way for it to become one of the top exporters of coconut-based products in the world.

At least 69 out of 82 provinces nationwide are coconut producers, each contributing to the country’s annual output of about 15 billion nuts, according to the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA). The PCA estimates that over 3.6 million hectares nationwide are planted with coconut trees, with around 350 million fruit-bearing trees.

Aside from its comparative advantage to grow coconuts, many Philippine farms are also sustainable and compliant with national and international food safety standards. This strict compliance with rules and regulations of markets is a testament to the country’s commitment to sustainable farming and healthy consumption, according to the PCA, as well as the Department of Trade and Industry's (DTI) National High Value Coconut Products Industry Roadmap 2022-2030. 

Such efforts have resulted in growing their presence across the globe in food aisles and exhibitions across the globe. They include IFEX Philippines exhibitors Lionheart Farms, Butuan Coconut Products, Pasiolco Agri Ventures, and GreenLife Coconut Products Manufacturing, whose coconut products have graced many international food trade events, as well as recognition from industry experts. 

In addition, the removal of coconut from the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) allergen list in January 2025 now allows Philippine coconuts to penetrate more market segments in the US and provides consumers with confidence that the commodity poses no harm to consumers, especially those with allergies to certain food ingredients.

The Rise of Coconut Water

Coconut has been identified by the DTI as one of the Premium 7 products for its top export performance, bringing in millions of dollars to the country’s economy, led by products like virgin coconut oil and coconut water.

Some of the most preferred forms of coconut water today are tender coconut water, minimally processed tender coconut water, coconut water concentrates, bottled mature coconut water, and coconut water beverages. 

The Philippines’ export of coconut water comes in two forms: coconut water or the unmodified liquid endosperm of either young or mature coconut fruit and as a coconut water concentrate that is obtained by concentrating purified and pasteurized coconut water, according to the PCA. 

One of the top coconut products today, coconut water has generated over US$100 million in export revenues for the country. 

Between 2009 and 2019, the country's coconut water exports grew significantly. From an export value of US$368,277 in 2009, coconut water exports reached US$57.108 million in 2019, according to the PCA’s coconut industry roadmap.  By 2023, export earnings from coconut water hit US$67.453 million, according to industry group United Coconut Association of the Philippines Inc.

Coconut water is considered  a rehydrator and even an anti-aging  product due to its characteristics of being a natural diuretic, digestive soother, detoxifier, and cholesterol-lowering product. This makes coconut water a popular choice not only for sports buffs, but also for ordinary consumers, as well as health-conscious individuals. According to the PCA, the projected increase in demand for coconut water stems from its low energy value and naturally low sweetness, which makes it an ideal mixer for other fruit juices or purees for improved nutritional value. 

Find the best coconut products at the upcoming 19th edition of IFEX Philippines on May 21-23, 2026 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City, Philippines. Alternatively, you can visit and explore the digital storefronts of exhibitors at IFEXConnect.com.