Coconuts are gathered to make copra

Abstract

Coconuts are gathered to make copra, which is the dehydrated meat of matured nuts. Plantations suffered severely during the war, but rehabilitation has been rapid and over 500 European-managed plantations, together with numerous scattered native coconut groves, are producing about 100,000 tons a year valued at approximately £10 million. Working to a comprehensive plan of action drawn up in 1955 the Department of Agriculture, Stock and Fisheries Branch of the Administration is actively promoting the expansion of the coconut industry by research and investigations into all of its aspects. It is estimated that about one-quarter of the total copra exported is derived from stands owned by natives. Plantations are situated mainly in the districts of New Britain, New Ireland, Madang, Bougainville and Eastern Papua. In 1959-60, about 105,000 tons (in copra equivalent) of coconut products valued at £10.28 million were exported. This included 25,526 tons of coconut oil valued at £3,814,000.