Lang
The Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC), an intergovernmental organization of palm oil-producing countries, held a high-level meeting today in Beijing as part of the council delegation’s visit to China.
The meeting brought together government officials, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to explore cooperation pathways for a sustainable palm oil value chain.
Under the theme “Towards a Sustainable Green Value Chain: Collaborative Pathways for Palm Oil Trade,” the discussions highlighted palm oil’s vital role in global trade and its potential alignment with China’s sustainability goals.
Key topics included strengthening supply-chain transparency, addressing market challenges, and promoting responsible consumption.
Palm oil is the world’s most consumed vegetable oil, accounting for around 40% of global edible oil production. CPOPC member and observer countries produce 88.8% of global palm oil output, supporting millions of livelihoods.
Recognizing growing demand for sustainable commodities, CPOPC member countries have made progress in addressing sustainability challenges. For example, Indonesia and Malaysia, two of the world’s largest palm oil producers, have reduced primary forest loss to near-record lows despite increasing production.
Rizal Affandi Lukman, CPOPC Secretary-General, said: “Sustainability is non-negotiable. Through initiatives such as the Global Framework Principles for Sustainable Palm Oil, we are harmonizing standards and empowering smallholders to adopt environmentally friendly practices. Palm oil is not just an economic driver; it is a platform for green innovation.”
China, as the world’s second-largest palm oil importer, is a vital partner for palm oil-producing countries.
Last November, CPOPC signed a memorandum of understanding with the China Chamber of Commerce of Import and Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce and Animal By-Products (CFNA) and the World Resources Institute (WRI) China to strengthen sustainable cooperation between China and palm oil-producing countries.
Building on this foundation, the meeting represents an important opportunity to deepen cooperation between China and CPOPC member countries in developing sustainable supply chains and promoting the green economy.