Tab Article

Genre: Agriculture, Economics, Industry Study, Development Studies, Non-Fiction
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Book Review:
Technical & Economic Interphases of the Coconut Industry is a detailed and insightful examination of one of Sri Lanka’s most historically and economically important crops—the coconut. Written by S.B. Ratnayake, a veteran professional with over thirty years of experience in coconut research, processing, and development, this book bridges the technical aspects of coconut cultivation and processing with the economic realities of the global market.

Ratnayake explores how globalization, trade policies, disease threats, and changing consumption patterns impact the coconut sector. He addresses both traditional uses and emerging value-added products (such as husk-based goods), while highlighting challenges like declining nut supply, price volatility, and the need for sustainable productivity improvements. The author’s expertise shines through in his balanced treatment of scientific detail and commercial strategy.

While the book is highly specialized and may be most relevant to agricultural scientists, industry stakeholders, policymakers, and students of agricultural economics, it is written with enough clarity to engage anyone interested in commodity studies, rural development, or Sri Lanka’s plantation heritage. It is both a practical guide and a thoughtful critique of how the industry can adapt and thrive.

A valuable contribution to the literature on tropical agriculture, Technical & Economic Interphases of the Coconut Industry offers a thorough, well-informed perspective on a crop that remains vital to livelihoods, culture, and nutrition across the tropics. Recommended for professionals in the field and readers seeking an in-depth understanding of agro-industry dynamics.