Malaysian Palm Oil Exports Show Mixed Results In First Nine Months Of 2025

Malaysian palm oil exports delivered a mixed performance in the first nine months of 2025 compared with the same period last year. While the total value of exports rose slightly, overall export volume declined, accompanied by significant shifts in demand from major importing countries.

Key Figures At A Glance

• Total export volume: 11.04 million tonnes (down 10.5% from 12.33 million tonnes in 2024)
• Total export value: RM52.31 billion (up 1.0% from RM51.80 billion in 2024)

Performance In Key Markets

The data reveal a notable decline in exports to some of the largest traditional markets, while demand from the Philippines showed strong growth.

• India: Remained the top importer but saw a significant 14.1% drop in volume, importing 1.92 million tonnes compared with 2.24 million tonnes in 2024.
• China: Recorded the biggest decline among the top five markets, with exports plunging 41.3% to 597,209 tonnes from 1.02 million tonnes a year earlier.
• European Union: Imports from the EU also fell sharply, down 16.1% to 793,295 tonnes.
• Kenya: Imports to Kenya dropped 5.0% to 798,074 tonnes.
• Philippines: Bucking the downward trend, the Philippines emerged as a strong growth market, with imports rising 17.2% to 568,515 tonnes.

Analysis

The decline in export volume against a rise in value suggests that higher palm oil prices on the global market offset the drop in shipped quantities. The sharp fall in demand from major importers such as China and India was the main driver behind the overall volume decline.

The impressive growth in exports to the Philippines points to successful market expansion or a shift in trade dynamics. However, this growth was not enough to offset losses from other key markets. The data, compiled by the Malaysian Palm Oil Board, highlight both the challenges and opportunities facing Malaysia's palm oil industry as it navigates shifting global demand.

Source: Bernama