MALAYSIA TO WORK CLOSELY WITH KENYA TO ENSURE STABLE PALM OIL SUPPLY - MPOC 

KUALA LUMPUR, May 9 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is committed to working closely with Kenyan partners to ensure a stable palm oil supply and deeper market integration, according to the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC).

Its chief executive officer, Belvinder Sron, noted that Minister of Plantation and Commodities Datuk Seri Johari Abdu Ghani’s recent visit to Kenya underscores Malaysia’s strategic focus on expanding exports of high-quality, sustainable palm oil to the region. 

“This visit sends a strong message of Malaysia’s continued commitment to supporting Kenya’s economic growth. We look forward to further strengthening cooperation with partners across the region. Kenya is not just a market, it is a gateway to the broader East African region. 

“With rising demand for edible oils, a dynamic manufacturing base and improving logistics infrastructure, Kenya offers significant long-term opportunities for Malaysian palm oil,” she said. 

In the past five years, Malaysian palm oil exports to Kenya have more than doubled -- from 520,758 tonnes in 2020 to 1.26 million tonnes in 2024 -- demonstrating Malaysia’s position as a trusted supplier of high-quality, sustainable palm oil.

“We are committed to working closely with our Kenyan partners to ensure stable supply and deeper market integration,” emphasised Belvinder. 

During the visit, Johari engaged in a series of strategic discussions with key Kenyan government officials and industry stakeholders.

He also chaired a roundtable discussion with major players in Kenya’s oils and fats sector, focusing on unlocking trade opportunities, addressing market access challenges, and strengthening Kenya’s role as a central distribution hub for the region.

“Over the years, MPOC has expanded its engagement in Africa through trade missions, promotional programmes, and buyer-seller networking sessions, connecting stakeholders from both Malaysia and various African nations. These efforts have fostered greater market access and mutual growth.

“This is part of MPOC’s broader strategy to diversify Malaysian palm oil exports beyond traditional markets, with Africa identified as a key focus due to its growing demand and economic potential,” noted Belvinder.

-- BERNAMA