Empoc Confident of Rising Palm Oil Demand in China and India

22-Apr-2025 05:01 PM

Kuala Lumpur. The Malaysian Palm Oil Council (Empoc) expects palm oil imports in China and India to rise over the next two months.

The increase is likely as both countries look to boost edible oil stocks ahead of the summer season, with palm oil currently more price-competitive than soybean oil.

Empoc said China may raise imports in May and June due to seasonal consumption trends, coupled with reduced soybean imports from the U.S. amid an ongoing trade dispute.

In India, palm oil imports have remained below average for the past three months, depleting stocks—prompting expected replenishment efforts soon.

Palm oil prices are projected to stay supportive around 3,900 ringgit per tonne, maintaining import appeal. Meanwhile, soybean and sunflower oil prices are rising, enhancing palm oil’s competitiveness.

In 2024, India imported 30.30 lakh tonnes of Malaysian palm oil, accounting for 18% of Malaysia’s total exports. China’s imports stood at 13.90 lakh tonnes. The July futures price of crude palm oil on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives is around 3,915 ringgit per tonne.