Why Choosing the Right Coconut Milk Supplier Matters During a Global Coconut Shortage in 2025

The global food and beverage market has seen a dramatic rise in the popularity of coconut-based products. From coconut milk and coconut cream to plant-based beverages and dairy alternatives, consumer demand is driving innovation across every category—from household cooking to commercial food production.

However, this surge in demand has been accompanied by an emerging challenge: a global coconut shortage. Rising raw material costs, inconsistent supply, and delays in production timelines are now key concerns for importers, distributors, and food manufacturers worldwide.

Understanding the Coconut Shortage

The coconut industry is currently facing unprecedented strain. Several factors are contributing to a global coconut shortage, disrupting the entire supply chain and making it difficult for businesses to maintain inventory and pricing stability.

Key Drivers of the Shortage:

• Climate change: Unpredictable weather conditions and droughts in major growing regions (such as the Philippines and Indonesia) have reduced yields significantly which is the main drivers of the shortage for 2025
• Increased global demand: The rise of health-conscious and vegan diets has pushed coconut-based product consumption to an all-time high.
• Supply chain disruptions: Post-pandemic shipping issues, increased freight costs, and port congestion continue to impact availability.
• Aging coconut trees: Many plantations are under-producing due to older tree populations and insufficient replanting efforts.

Impacts on the Industry:

• Higher prices for raw coconut and finished coconut milk products
• Longer lead times for production and shipping
• Supply inconsistency, creating risk for businesses relying on coconut milk  from one country or one supplier 

For importers, distributors, and private label brands, these issues translate into lost opportunities, production delays, and higher operating costs. The solution? Sourcing from a stable, certified, and experienced coconut milk producer—preferably in a region that remains resilient amid these global challenges.

Why Thailand Remains a Leading Coconut Milk Source

Thailand has emerged as one of the most reliable and efficient coconut milk producers in the world, and for good reason. While other countries struggle with inconsistent production, Thailand continues to supply coconut milk to global markets with stability, quality, and speed.

Thailand’s Competitive Advantages:

• Ideal climate and soil: Thailand’s tropical weather and fertile land are ideal for growing high-fat, aromatic coconuts used in premium coconut milk production.
• Year-round harvesting: Unlike seasonal suppliers, Thailand maintains a steady coconut supply throughout the year, ensuring consistent production.
• Established industry expertise: Thai manufacturers have decades of experience in processing and exporting coconut milk that meets global food safety standards.

Export-Ready Infrastructure:

Thailand also benefits from a robust food processing industry with modern manufacturing facilities, certified production lines, and efficient logistics. This infrastructure enables Thai coconut milk suppliers to respond quickly to demand shifts, even during volatile market conditions.

In a time of global uncertainty, sourcing coconut milk from Thailand offers businesses a degree of supply chain security that few other regions can match.

What to Look for in a Coconut Milk Supplier

When choosing a coconut milk supplier—especially during a shortage—businesses must look beyond just price. The ideal supplier should offer more than just products; they should provide consistency, reliability, and long-term partnership value.

Key Qualities of a Reliable Supplier:

• Sustainable raw material sourcing: Ensures a long-term supply of coconuts without relying on unstable harvest cycles.
• Certifications and compliance: Look for manufacturers that meet international food safety standards, including:
  • BRC (British Retail Consortium)
  • IFS (International Featured Standards)
  • BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative)
  • GHPs (Good Hygiene Practices)
• OEM/private label capability: Ability to customize packaging, fat content, and branding for food brands and distributors.
• Bulk order fulfillment and fast delivery: Responsive logistics and production scheduling to prevent stockouts.
• Transparency and communication: Clear documentation, honest lead time expectations, and ongoing supplier support.

In times of supply disruption, working with a supplier that values partnership and has the capacity to adapt becomes essential for business continuity.

Why Erawan Food is a Trusted Coconut Milk Supplier

Erawan Food is one of Thailand’s most established and respected coconut milk suppliers. With over 70 years of experience, the company combines traditional expertise with modern manufacturing to deliver high-quality coconut milk to more than 50 countries worldwide.

What Sets Erawan Food Apart:

• Certified production facilities: Erawan adheres to BRC, IFS, BSCI, and GHPs certifications, meeting strict global food safety and ethical standards.
• Flexible product formats: Offers coconut milk in various fat levels—20–22% coconut cream, 17–19% coconut milk, and 5–7% light coconut milk—tailored for different food and beverage applications.
• Private label/OEM solutions: Custom packaging, formulas, and branding options for food brands, retailers, and importers.
• Best Thai Brand: Our company brands which are Twin Elephants & Earth and Elephant & Sun are well-known worldwide and received Thailand PM’s Award for Best Thai Brand
• Fast delivery capability: Erawan can fulfill bulk orders and ship products in as little as 15 days* (terms and conditions apply), even amid high demand.
• Year-round production stability: Leveraging Thailand’s agricultural strengths, Erawan ensures a steady supply of raw coconuts to meet global needs—even during shortages.

Trusted by importers, food manufacturers, and supermarkets, Erawan Food continues to be a dependable partner for businesses that demand both quality and consistency.

In a time of global coconut shortages, choosing the right coconut milk supplier can make the difference between business disruption and continued growth. With proven expertise, scalable production, and export readiness, Thailand remains a strategic sourcing destination for high-quality coconut milk.

Erawan Food stands out as a trusted coconut milk supplier from Thailand, offering product quality, delivery reliability, and long-term partnership value. Whether you’re looking to protect your supply chain, develop private label products, or scale your brand internationally, Erawan is ready to help you succeed.

Looking for a reliable coconut milk supplier from Thailand?

Explore our coconut milk range or contact us today to discuss OEM options, bulk pricing, and fast international delivery.