India’s Coir Sector: Creating Livelihoods, Promoting Entrepreneurship and Driving Sustainable Growth

India is the world's largest producer and exporter of coir, accounting for about two-thirds of global production with a turnover of approximately ₹16,000 crore and contributing close to 1% to the GDP. In FY 2025-26, exports reached ₹6,614.40 crore, driven by major markets such as the US, China, Netherlands, Spain, and the UK. The sector comprises over 21,000 registered coir units under the Udyam portal, employing over 7 lakh workers overall, with 80% being rural women. The Ministry of MSME implements the Coir Vikas Yojana (CVY) to support technological development, skill training, and market promotion. Over the past 12 years, exports have risen by 305.70%, and thousands of individuals have received skill training through initiatives like the Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme.