The 51st International Coconut Conference in Indonesia brought together stakeholders from across the coconut industry to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and innovations. The event fostered collaboration among producers, researchers, policymakers, and industry experts to develop sustainable solutions for the coconut industry’s growth and development. By sharing knowledge, best practices, and success stories, the conference sought to enhance the livelihoods of coconut farmers and ensure the industry’s long-term sustainability. The participation of Fairtrade Network of Asia and Pacific Producers (NAPP) was co-funded by ECFFPA.
Fairtrade Network of Asia and Pacific Producers (NAPP) actively participated in the 51st International Coconut Conference held in Surabaya, Indonesia from July 22 to 25, 2024. Fairtrade NAPP team supported the producers’ engagement in high-level events to influence policy making, increase Fairtrade visibility in the region and strengthen its networking with policy making bodies, experts and industry leaders and advocate to increase public awareness of Fairtrade model in sustainable production and sustainable consumption.
During the conference, Fairtrade NAPP showcased its ongoing efforts to support and uplift coconut producers in the Asia-Pacific region. Field visits were conducted at PT Sionchem Global Indo, an oil-exporting company, and Bara Bara Holistic Charcoal Industry, a coconut charcoal exporter. Fairtrade NAPP’s producer representative, Dr. Rosemarie Gonzales, presented a study on Understanding the Impact of Fairtrade Approaches on Sustaining Markets: A Comprehensive Analysis of Coconut-Based Products in Asia Pacific. This study examined the impact of Fairtrade initiatives on sustaining markets for coconut-based products in the Asia Pacific. Significant findings indicated the consistent growth in Fairtrade coconut production in India, with Sri Lanka also being a major producer. Indonesia, however, leads globally in non-Fairtrade-certified coconut production. From 2022 to 2024, Fairtrade coconut-based products sold to France primarily came from Sri Lanka, except for coconut sugar, which is sourced from Indonesia. The study highlighted varying dynamics in Fairtrade-certified coco sugar production in Indonesia and the Philippines, influenced by agricultural practices and certification challenges. While Indonesia’s non-Fairtrade coco sugar production fluctuated, the Philippines maintained stability, reflecting strategic market positioning.
Coconut production faces challenges such as supply and demand imbalances, regulatory complexities, and financial constraints. Fairtrade addresses these challenges through holistic approaches, including tree rejuvenation, agricultural training, and cooperative structures to streamline supply chains. Demand-side challenges are mitigated by consumer education, improved market access, and product differentiation through sustainability certifications. Regulatory hurdles are tackled through policy advocacy, and financial challenges are addressed with minimum price guarantees and enhanced financial access. The study underscored the Fairtrade’s role in fostering market resilience, improving livelihoods, and promoting sustainable practices, providing valuable insights for stakeholders and policymakers. Field visits were conducted at PT Sionchem Global Indo, an oil exporting company, and Bara Bara Holistic Charcoal Industry, a coconut charcoal exporter.
Dr. Gonzales presentation highlighted the importance of ethical trading practices and the positive effects of Fairtrade certification on ensuring long-term market stability and fair pricing for producers. In addition, The Fairtrade NAPP plans to create a regional advocacy working groups to empower producers to influence policy changes and advance fairtrade practices. These groups will span national borders for major commodities such as coffee, coconut, tea, cotton, rice, and sugar, promoting cooperation and best practice exchange to create a fairer trading environment. Outcomes include a concept paper for a coconut advocacy group in Asia and the Pacific, aligned with Fairtrade system goals, and a draft plan with priorities for the coconut network.
Fairtrade NAPP’s participation in the conference also included networking opportunities with other key industry players. These interactions aimed to strengthen partnerships and explore new avenues for collaboration to further support the growth and development of Fairtrade-certified coconut producers in the region.
