The inaugural Malaysia-China 30 CEOs Forum on Oils and Fats, held yesterday, successfully convened key industry leaders to enhance collaboration, unlock new trade opportunities, and drive innovation in the palm oil sector.
This forum is organised by the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities, Malaysia in partnership with Beijing Heyirong Invest Group, and co-organised by the China-Malaysia Qinzhou Industrial Park. This event also supported by the Dalian Commodity Exchange (DCE) and Shanghai Bairong Industrial Co., Ltd. The forum provides a platform for top business leaders and experts to exchange insights and foster deeper cooperation in the oils and fats industry.
Beijing Heyirong Invest Group is one of the largest palm oil importers among Chinese local companies, with an annual import volume of 300,000 tonnes of RBD palm olein and RBD palm stearin. The forum was attended by 15 key industry players and importers from China, who collectively account for an annual palm oil import volume of nearly 3 million tonnes.
According to Chan, Malaysia’s palm oil exports to China reached RM10.57 billion in 2024, with a notable 40% increase in palm kernel oil exports, primarily used in China’s oleochemical industry. He expressed appreciation for China’s longstanding support and emphasized Malaysia’s commitment to maintaining a stable and high-quality palm oil supply.
“Malaysia continues to lead the industry with its commitment to sustainability, high quality, and a stable supply chain. Through the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification, the country ensures environmentally responsible practices, reduces carbon emissions, and contributes to global food and energy security. As a global leader in sustainable palm oil production, Malaysia offers a reliable and ethically sourced supply for Chinese enterprises.
“Beyond sustainability, Malaysian palm oil is renowned for its high quality and versatility. Refined palm oil, specialty fats, and oleochemical derivatives are widely used in food processing, animal feed, personal care products, bio-based chemicals, and green energy. With China’s increasing demand for high-protein, high-energy animal feed, palm oil plays an essential role in supporting the livestock industry, while its stability and functional properties make it a key ingredient in China’s bakery, fast food, dairy, cosmetics, and home care industries,” said Chan.
With China’s central and western regions, along with second- and third-tier cities, emerging as high-potential markets, the Malaysian government aims to further expand palm oil applications. The Deputy Minister announced plans to visit Chengdu and Chongqing to explore opportunities in food processing, personal care, and chemical industries, leveraging the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor.
He encouraged Chinese food processors, restaurant chains, FMCG brands, and e-commerce platforms to collaborate in promoting Malaysian palm oil, fostering greater market penetration and consumer awareness.
Meanwhile, during the presentation on Malaysian Palm Oil Industry Performance 2024 & Prospects for 2025, Datuk Dr. Ahmad Parveez Ghulam Kadir, Director General of MPOB, projected that palm oil exports to China would remain stable at approximately 3.0 million tonnes in 2025.
However, significant changes in export composition are anticipated, Ahmad Parveez said. The export of high-value palm-based products such as palm shortening, cocoa butter substitutes, and oleochemical derivatives is expected to increase in response to China’s growing demand for high-value-added imports to support its evolving industrial and consumer needs.
He added that strategic research and development partnerships between Malaysia and China will further drive growth in food innovation, industrial applications, and green economy initiatives, integrating Malaysian palm oil into China’s expanding value-added supply chain.
“Beyond food applications, Malaysia is diversifying its palm oil exports into sectors such as aquaculture and aquatic feeds, where palm oil derivatives are increasingly valued for their nutritional and sustainability benefits. Additionally, the demand for eco-friendly cleaning and industrial products is expected to drive further growth in the use of palm oil-based surfactants.
“The Ministry and agencies will continuously collaborate closely to address environmental concerns while also promoting economic stability and social responsibility within the industry, ultimately fostering a more sustainable and balanced future,” said Ahmad Parveez.