The Department of Agriculture (DA) sent over a shipment of 32,000 coconuts to Liberia, in the hopes of stepping into a new business opportunity for Filipino coconut farmers.

The DA, in partnership with Davao-based Abante Agri-Products Philippines Inc., sent over a donation of two 40-footer container vans containing 50 metric tons of coconuts, collectively valued at USD $22,400, reported RH 5 Val Gonzales.

The shipment of high-quality, Mindanao coconuts, selected with the help of Smart Reefer Technology, was shipped to Monrovia, Liberia.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said that while the shipment aims to open the doors for business with Liberia, the coconuts also serve as a donation to aid feeding programs in remote areas in the African country, giving the venture a humanitarian purpose as well.

With the shipment, the DA hopes to enter the West African market, securing higher earnings for Filipino coconut farmers and local exporters.

The shipment was sent by both the DA and the Philippine Coconut Authority Region 11. Tiu Laurel said the DA is ready to ensure regular exports and that the Mindanaoan farmers themselves benefit from it.

Watch the report below.