Indonesia and Malaysia push for fair EU palm oil regulations

Indonesia and Malaysia are working together to address the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). The issue was discussed at the 12th Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC) meeting in Jakarta.

Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto urged the EU to accept Indonesia’s and Malaysia’s sustainability standards as equal to global ones like the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). Both countries have traceability systems but find the EU’s demand for location data too burdensome.

Malaysia’s Minister Johari Abdul Ghani pointed out the challenges for small farmers. Around 2.5 million in Indonesia and up to 450,000 in Malaysia may struggle to meet the requirements.

The governments stressed the need for continued talks with the EU. They aim to ensure fair regulations that respect local laws, support environmental goals, and protect small farmers.

Tags: EU Deforestation Regulation, Indonesia, Malaysia, Sustainability, CPOPC, RSPO, EUDR