Coconut prices have increased significantly over the last year but the exact reason for the bump is not clear though some vendors blame the rise in fuel prices in 2018 while others cite a hike in exports.
Consumer demand for coconuts, specifically the coconut water, has increased over the years as persons are now more aware of its many health benefits. Over the past year, it has been observed that the prices for the water-bearing nut have increased. Vendors, who sell coconuts in and around Georgetown, gave various reasons for this.
Roy (only name given), who sells coconuts on a push cart around the city, told Stabroek News that the prices for his coconuts have increased as the farmer he purchases from has also hiked his price citing the higher cost of fuel. The man revealed that he sources his coconuts from the Pomeroon and a few years ago and even up to one year ago, prices were significantly lower. He said the cost of transporting the coconuts to Georgetown went up and this had an impact on the price.