Ambitious goal: India aims to become a palm oil exporter

India, which spends 40,000 crore rupees (about 4.8 billion dollars) on palm oil imports every year, has decided to change the game. The country is launching an ambitious plan to not only self-sufficient but also become an exporter of this “liquid gold”. As part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, India wants to get rid of its dependence on imports, which account for 56% of its edible oil requirements, and gain a place in the global market.

The National Mission on Palm Oil (NMEO-OP), launched in 2021, is converting deserts and paddy fields into palm plantations. The secret to success is quality seeds, drip irrigation and intercropping, which gives farmers an income while the palms grow. India has already identified huge areas for cultivation, promising profits for farmers and savings for the country. Belwinder Kaur Sron of the Malaysian Palm Oil Council is confident that India can repeat Malaysia’s triumph.

Malaysia, where palm oil feeds millions and brings in billions, is a real teacher for India. Its MSPO certification, which covers 84% ​​of its plantations, shows how to combine profit and care for the environment. India is following suit, improving technology, involving the private sector and dreaming of its own “green” certification to sell the oil to Europe and Asia.

Tags: India, palm oil