The International Coconut Community (ICC) joined the Government of Sri Lanka in commemorating World Coconut Day (WCD) 2025, a global celebration highlighting the socio-economic importance of coconut. This year’s national event in Sri Lanka was held in Puthukkudiyiruppu, under the patronage of H.E. Anura Kumara Dissanayake, President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, and coincided with the historic launch of the Northern Coconut Triangle.
The ICC was represented at the celebrations by its Deputy Director General, Mr. A.H.N. Nuwan Chinthaka, who attended on behalf of Dr. Jelfina C. Alouw, Director General of ICC. During the ceremony, Mr. Chinthaka presented a Plaque of Appreciation on behalf of ICC to the President of Sri Lanka, in recognition of his leadership and commitment to advancing the coconut sector.
Presidential Vision for Revitalizing the Northern Province
Addressing the gathering, President Dissanayake emphasized that the government’s foremost responsibility is to revitalize the Northern Province and build a stronger, inclusive economy for its people. The President highlighted that the Northern Coconut Triangle Project forms part of a wider strategy to stimulate regional economic growth, attract investment, and create sustainable livelihoods. Complementary programs, such as the establishment of industrial zones and improved infrastructure, will accompany the project to generate new employment opportunities.
Equally, President Dissanayake reaffirmed the government’s dedication to protecting the land, linguistic, and cultural rights of Northern communities, while also ensuring families’ right to know the fate of missing persons. He underlined that national unity remains the government’s goal, and necessary measures will be taken decisively to secure peace and prosperity for all Sri Lankans.
The Northern Coconut Triangle Initiative
The Northern Coconut Triangle was launched in Puthukkudiyiruppu, covering the districts of Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, Mannar, and Vavuniya, by linking the towns of Point Pedro, Silawathura, and Kokkilai.
Based on recommendations from the Coconut Research Institute of Sri Lanka (CRI), the initiative has been allocated Rs. 500 million from the national budget to distribute high-yield coconut saplings to farmers and to establish 16,000 acres of new coconut plantations in 2025. The program is expected to expand to 40,000 acres between 2025 and 2027, creating a thriving coconut-based economy in the Northern Province.
Through this effort, the government projects an additional USD 70 million annually in export earnings from coconut and related products, while simultaneously uplifting farming communities in the region. The initiative is seen as a flagship program that will both revitalize underutilized land resources and contribute to the national economy.
First Coconut Seed Production Unit in the North
In a symbolic step to mark the beginning of operations, the President also inaugurated the first coconut seed production unit in the Northern Province at Pallai, established in collaboration between the Coconut Research Institute and the Chilaw Plantations Company.
By planting a seed coconut sapling at the site, the President highlighted the importance of strengthening the supply chain for quality planting material, which remains a key constraint in scaling up coconut cultivation in new areas.
The new production unit will play a pivotal role in ensuring the steady availability of high-quality seed nuts, which will in turn support the success of the Northern Coconut Triangle initiative.
Farmers at the Center of Development
A significant feature of the celebrations was the presentation of land ownership deeds and government assistance packages to farmers engaged in coconut cultivation across the five Northern districts. This move was welcomed as a concrete sign of the government’s commitment to empowering farming families and ensuring that they remain at the center of the sector’s revitalization.
The President also toured a coconut-related exhibition organized by the Coconut Development Authority (CDA), which showcased innovations in processing, product diversification, and value addition. The exhibition attracted the participation of local entrepreneurs and industry stakeholders, underscoring the wide-ranging opportunities that coconut can bring to regional development.
ICC’s Role and Global Perspective
World Coconut Day, celebrated annually on 2 September, is coordinated globally by the ICC to mark the establishment of the organization in 1969. Each year, ICC member countries host events under a common theme to showcase the sector’s importance.
In 2025, the global theme “Uncovering Coconut’s Power, Inspiring Global Action” resonates strongly with Sri Lanka’s initiative. The Northern Coconut Triangle exemplifies how coconut can serve as both a driver of economic empowerment and a tool for resilience, while addressing the dual challenges of stagnating production and rising global demand.
Symbol of Collaboration and Hope
The launch of the Northern Coconut Triangle during WCD 2025 celebrations is more than a development project, it is a symbol of revitalization, reconciliation, and renewed opportunity for Sri Lanka’s Northern Province.
By combining government commitment, institutional expertise, and farmer participation, the initiative lays the foundation for long-term sustainability and economic empowerment. For the ICC and its member countries, it also stands as a model of how coconut can be leveraged as a strategic crop to meet rising demand, strengthen resilience, and inspire global action