Malaysia’s Palm Oil Exports to the US Up 51.8%

Malaysia’s palm oil exports to the United States (US) increased by 51.8% to 93,000 tonnes from January to May 2025, compared to 61,000 tonnes in the same period last year.

The Ministry of Plantations and Commodities of Malaysia said that 65% of its palm oil exports to the US in 2024 were certified organic products used in high-value-added products, while another 19% was palm stearin, a key ingredient in the food and personal care industries, according to Malaysia’s national news agency Bernama.

While the US is not a major market for Malaysia’s palm oil exports, the ministry stressed that the government is paying attention to the 25% tariff imposed by the US on Malaysian goods, which comes into effect on August 1, 2025, to ensure that the country’s market position is not affected.

“The ministry is always vigilant and proactive in monitoring developments in international trade policies to protect the country’s exports,” the ministry said in a statement, noting that it continues to engage with the US along with the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry to ensure fair, open and mutually beneficial trade relations.

The ministry plans to intensify efforts to implement Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) 2.0 certification to ensure compliance with international standards, especially in the areas of environmental, social and sustainability (ESG), as well as the implementation of the Sawit Intelligent Management System (SIMS), which ensures full traceability of all oil produced from the plantation.

The ministry also recalls the signing of two new agreements on the Malaysia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (14 January 2025) and the Malaysia-EFTA Economic Partnership Agreement (23 June 2025).

The agreements will provide greater market access for palm oil products, help reduce tariffs, overcome non-tariff barriers and encourage foreign investment in the raw materials sector, the ministry recalls.

“Overall, the comprehensive measures taken by the ministry and relevant departments are aimed at ensuring the competitiveness of the country’s palm oil industry, stimulating exports and maintaining Malaysia’s reputation as a sustainable, transparent and ethical palm oil producer.

Earlier it became known that Indonesia and Malaysia agreed to work together to counter negative campaigns against their vital palm oil exports and expand their markets of influence.

Tags: Malaysia, palm oil, USA