The coconut industry is facing a tough time meeting the United States demand for seed coconuts.

There is a large market for seed coconuts in Florida, the Coconut Industry Board said, which Jamaica is unable to supply at this time due to a shortage of exportable quality seeds.

The board however said, in its 2006 report of operations, that it is currently pursuing policies which, subject to destruction by hurricane and diseases, should address the shortfall within a few years.

- G.M.