New coconut hybrid nears release to boost local industry’s resilience

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Coconut Industry Board (CIB), Shaun Cameron, says a new coconut hybrid is nearing release, marking a significant step in ongoing efforts to enhance the sector's resilience and ensure its long-term viability.

He told JIS News that the breakthrough stems from years of dedicated scientific research focused on identifying coconut varieties best suited to Jamaica's unique climate and topography.

"Research on a hybrid, based on climatic conditions and topography, takes about 10 to 14 years before we can say that it's suitable for our environment... and we're coming close to those 14 years now," the CEO said.

The forthcoming hybrid is expected to play a pivotal role in rebuilding and expanding the coconut industry, particularly as the sector works to recover from recent challenges, including damage caused by Hurricane Melissa.

Cameron further noted that the initiative aligns with the Board's broader commitment to research and development.

He emphasised that scientific research has been instrumental in restoring the coconut sector, helping to reverse years of decline.

The industry has continually adapted to major threats over the years, including the devastating impact of the lethal yellowing disease, which severely reduced production across the island in past decades.

Based on lethal yellowing, we had to get different varieties to make sure that we have varieties that can come into our environment and withstand [it]," Cameron explained.

He emphasised that the Board's research programme continues to be critical as the sector responds to emerging challenges, including bud rot, while also seeking to improve productivity and resilience.

Cameron noted that Jamaica currently maintains the largest coconut germplasm collection in the Western Hemisphere, a resource he described as vital for preserving and improving coconut varieties for future use.

He explained that the collection enables the Board to evaluate and cross different varieties, in order to produce hybrids with stronger disease resistance, improved adaptability, and greater commercial value.

- JIS News

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