The French established a copra empire in the Indian Ocean.

The Maldives has a rich history of trading coconuts and copra, the dried coconut kernel. The coconut tree, being the national tree of the Maldives, serves as an essential source of nourishment, shelter, and livelihood.

History of coconut trading

The history of colonial copra trading involves the exploitation of coconuts by European and other colonial powers for the production of coconut oil. The copra trade was driven by the demand for vegetable oil in Europe, which was high due to the development of the margarine and soap industries. 

The French established a copra empire in the Indian Ocean, also on an island in the Maldives, Pollawasi (Diego Garcia Island), where they established copra plantations during the late 17th century.

• Dutch and Britain: British traders were present in the copra trade.

• In the initial stages of copra trading, traders from Myanmar, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Madras participated.

• Nancowry

  Nancowry emerged as a significant trading hub for copra, where the method of making copra was developed.

• Corporatization

  During the first half of the 20th century, the industry grew to emphasize the corporate sale of coconuts and copra, loading colonial ships, image type oil painting.

• Global demand

  Recently, there has been an increase in global demand for coconut by-products, including copra and coconut water.

Importance of coconuts in Maldivian culture

• Coconuts are a staple ingredient in local dishes, particularly curries.

• Coconut milk is a key component in nearly all Maldivian curries.

• Coconut oil is utilized in cooking, as well as in the production of soaps, shampoos, lotions, and creams.

• Before the advent of electricity, coconut oil was used in lamps.

• Coconut oil was applied as a hair treatment to strengthen hair and prevent hair loss.

• Coconut oil was also used to alleviate pain and aches and in certain medical conditions.