Malaysia poised to beat last year's record palm oil output: Noraini
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is poised to match or potentially exceed last year’s record palm oil production, with the industry entering the final two months of 2026 firmly on target, said Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia aims to match or even surpass last year's record palm oil production, according to Plantation and Commodities Minister Dr Noraini Ahmad. The industry is currently on track to meet its target, with two more months of production left in the year. Speaking at the Malaysian Palm Oil Forum 2026, Noraini highlighted the industry's aggressive marketing efforts and optimistic outlook.
Last year, Malaysia produced 20.28 million tonnes of palm oil, marking a 4.9 percent increase from 2024. In the first seven months of 2026, the country produced 10.8 million tonnes of palm oil, with exports surpassing 9.1 million tonnes. Exports of palm oil and palm-based products generated around US$28.1 billion in 2025. Noraini emphasized the importance of adding value to every tonne of palm oil produced by moving up the value chain.
Opportunities exist in specialty fats, oleochemicals, and palm-based ingredients for various industries. Biomass, derived from oil palm waste, has significant potential and can provide additional income to the industry. Noraini encouraged industry players, researchers, and investors to collaborate and explore biomass opportunities, such as producing steam and electricity, to align with Malaysia's renewable energy and resource utilization goals.
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