PCA, Japanese firm to test nanotechnology for coconut farming

The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) has signed an agreement with Japanese firm Mitsui to test nanotechnology in coconut farming following eight months of negotiations.

The memorandum of agreement, signed on July 27, provides for a two-year field trial to evaluate the technology's effectiveness in increasing coconut yields and improving the health of coconut trees.

"Under the agreement, Mitsui will provide its proprietary nano-formulated nutrient technology, while the PCA will identify trial sites and provide technical support throughout the project," the Department of Agriculture (DA) said in a statement.

Unlike conventional fertilizers that are applied to the soil, the nanotechnology uses microscopic nutrient capsules injected directly into the tree trunk, allowing for more efficient nutrient absorption, the DA said.

The department added that the technology has already been used in oil palm plantations.

"This partnership opens the door to innovations that could transform coconut farming by improving productivity, strengthening tree health, and making our farms more resilient," said PCA Administrator and CEO Dexter Buted.

"If the technology proves effective, it can help our coconut farmers produce more with fewer inputs while making the industry more globally competitive," he added.

In his fifth State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the government aims to plant 100 million coconut trees by 2028 to boost the country's coconut industry.

Marcos said 18 million coconut trees have already been planted under his administration.

According to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, coconut production reached 14.506 million metric tons in 2025, slightly higher than the 14.500 million metric tons recorded in 2024. — MCG, GMA News