Red Sea crisis spurs demand for Ivorian coconuts

COTE D’IVOIRE – Global trade disruptions caused by ongoing tensions in the Red Sea have fueled increased demand for coconuts from Côte d’Ivoire.

However, despite the uptick, exporters face challenges in meeting quality standards and securing competitive prices.

The conflict has severely impacted shipping routes from Asia, extending transit times to Europe and the Middle East.

This has turned the spotlight on Côte d’Ivoire, which is seeing higher orders for its coconuts. “Compared with last season, demand has increased,” said Mariella Tossou, general manager of Somat Trading.

“Political problems have lengthened transit times from Asian countries, leading to Côte d’Ivoire receiving significant interest.”

However, Tossou noted that exporters still struggle to meet international standards for size and quality. “The calibers of nuts requested are sometimes difficult to satisfy,” she explained.

Despite the demand surge, the local market’s fluctuating prices rarely translate into better global rates.

“Prices evolve very little, and this considerably limits exporters’ room in terms of sourcing,” Tossou said. “At certain times of the year, like during the mango season, exporting coconuts becomes less attractive.”

Europe remains Côte d’Ivoire’s largest market for coconuts, with key destinations including France, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain.

Demand is also growing in Turkey, Russia, and Middle Eastern nations such as Israel. Closer to home, Côte d’Ivoire supplies coconuts to neighboring countries like Senegal, Mali, and Morocco.

However, sourcing remains the season’s biggest challenge. According to Tossou, the gradual decline in production, coupled with the outflow of nuts to nearby countries, complicates the supply chain.

“Exporters are forced to source from various regions, making it difficult for most of the season,” she explained.

The ongoing conflict near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has led to attacks on commercial ships and caused shipping companies to reroute vessels around the Cape of Good Hope. This diversion adds 10 to 14 days to transit times, disrupting global supply chains and increasing costs.

The environmental toll is also mounting, with longer routes contributing to higher fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Pollution from debris generated by attacks has further degraded marine ecosystems along Africa’s Red Sea coastline.

In addition, food security in the Horn of Africa remains under threat. Delays in shipments have worsened the availability of critical supplies, impacting millions, including displaced populations.

A ceasefire announced on January 16, 2025, between Israel and Hamas has brought cautious optimism for stability in the region.

However, the Houthi militia has indicated it will continue targeting Israeli vessels, keeping shipping companies on high alert.

As the crisis unfolds, Côte d’Ivoire’s coconut sector is trying to capitalize on the shifting demand, but logistical and economic obstacles persist.

“The most important thing is to have good quality, exportable coconuts,” Tossou reiterated, underlining the need for sustainable solutions in the trade sector.

 

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