Introduction

There are probably more than 6 million hectares (ha) of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) in the world; about 90 percent of this crop area is in Asia and Oceania (Figure 1.1). Major producers of copra and coconut oil are the Philippines, Indonesia, Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon), Mexico, Malaysia, and the islands and territories of Oceania. The crop is grown mainly on islands, peninsulas, and along coasts, partly as a result of favorable growing conditions as well as easy access to shipping and transportation facilities.