Copra is the dried kernel of the coconut, harvested from the mature fruit of the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera). It is the principal raw material for producing coconut oil, which is widely used in cooking, cosmetics, and industrial applications. Copra typically contains 60–65% oil, making it one of the richest oil-bearing materials. Once the oil is extracted, the remaining copra cake is a valuable ingredient in animal feed due to its protein and fibre content.
Copra is produced extensively in tropical regions, with the Philippines, Indonesia, and India among the leading suppliers. The quality of copra depends on careful drying—sun-drying or kiln-drying methods are most common. As demand for natural oils and plant-based ingredients grows worldwide, copra plays a central role in global trade. Its versatility supports household use and large-scale industries across food, personal care, and biofuel sectors.