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Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) chief executive Belvinder Sron said Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani’s recent visit to Kenya underscores Malaysia’s strategic focus on expanding exports of high-quality, sustainable Malaysian palm oil to Kenya and the wider East African region.
Kuala Lumpur, May 9: MPOC reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to working closely with Kenyan partners to ensure stable palm oil supply and deepen market integration.
Belvinder said the minister’s visit reflects Malaysia’s strategic direction in strengthening exports of sustainable and high-quality palm oil to the region.
She said the visit sends a strong message about Malaysia’s continued commitment to supporting economic growth in Kenya and strengthening cooperation with partners across the region.
She added that Kenya is not only a market, but also a gateway to the entire East African region.
Belvinder noted that Kenya, with rising demand for edible oils, an active manufacturing base, and improving logistics infrastructure, represents a long-term opportunity for Malaysian palm oil exports.
Data showed that Malaysia’s palm oil exports to Kenya more than doubled over the past five years, from 520,758 tonnes in 2020 to 1.26 million tonnes in 2024, reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a reliable supplier of high-quality sustainable palm oil.
Belvinder stressed that Malaysia is committed to working closely with Kenyan partners to ensure supply stability and strengthen market integration.
During the visit, Minister Johari held a series of strategic discussions with senior Kenyan government officials and industry stakeholders.
He also chaired a roundtable that brought together key players in Kenya’s oils and fats sector. Discussions focused on unlocking trade opportunities, addressing market-access challenges, and strengthening Kenya’s role as a key distribution hub for the region.
Belvinder added that over the years, MPOC has expanded its engagement in Africa through trade missions, promotional programs, and buyer-seller networking sessions, helping strengthen market access and mutual growth.
She said these efforts form part of MPOC’s wider strategy to diversify Malaysian palm oil exports beyond traditional markets, with Africa serving as a key focus because of rising demand and strong economic potential.