Press Release 3^rd Sustainable Vegetable Oils Conference Rotterdam, The Netherlands, 10 September 2024

• Created Date: 10 September 2024

The 3rd Sustainable Vegetable Oils Conference concluded on 10 September 2024, in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from across the globe. Co-organized by the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC) and the Netherlands Oils and Fats Industry (MVO) in collaboration with key industry partners including the Indonesian Palm Oil Plantations Fund Management Agency (BPDPKS), the event addressed the complex challenges facing the vegetable oils sector amidst climate change, regulatory pressures, and rising global demand. The conference highlighted the urgent need for innovation and sustainable practices to meet the growing global demand while adhering to stringent environmental standards, such as the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).

The Senior Advisor for Connectivity, Service Sector, and Natural Resources of the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, the Republic of Indonesia, Dr Musdhalifah Machmud, pointed out that EUDR presents a complex landscape for Indonesia's agricultural sector. By adopting a proactive and strategic approach that emphasizes stakeholder engagement, capacity building, certification, and sustainable land use practices, Indonesia can successfully navigate the intricacies of the EUDR.

The Secretary General of Ministry of Plantation and Commodities of Malaysia, Dato' Yusran Shah bin Mohd Yusof, highlighted that Malaysia fully understands that  while increasing production is essential for food security and economic growth, it must be achieved in a manner that safeguards the environment, preserves biodiversity, and respects the rights and livelihoods of local communities. In view of this challenge, Malaysia is taking action to lead the way in sustainable vegetable oil production through our palm oil industry.

The Vice Minister of Agriculture and Livestock of Honduras, Lid Roy Lazo Rodríguez, reiterated that the transition to sustainable vegetable oil production is a challenge that is addressed with seriousness, conviction, and long-term vision. The vegetable oils industry not only contributes to the socio economic development of producing countries but also to be an example of how agricultural progress can go hand in hand with environmental conservation.

The Ambassador for Business and Development and Director Sustainable Economic Development Department Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Marchel Gerrmann, underlined the importance of international collaboration to embrace new legislation, intensify the dialogue between consumer and producer countries and use trade agreements to ensure an equal level playing field to drive sustainability forward. By doing so, the vegetable oil industry can be transformed into a force for good—one that supports economic growth, protects our planet, and uplifts communities.

The Secretary General of CPOPC, Dr Rizal Affandi Lukman, underscored that the 3rd SVOC provided the insights of cutting-edge research and technological advancements useful to enhance the sustainability of various oil crops, from palm oil to sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, and soybean oil. These innovations are crucial to reduce environmental footprints and to enhance productivity. More importantly he emphasized that palm oil plays complementary role to other vegetable oils, meeting the increasing global demand.

The Managing Director of The Netherlands Oils and Fats Industry (MVO), Frans Claassen, asserted that the way forward is through stronger, inclusive, and constructive dialogue among all stakeholders. This must include the millions of smallholders who play a crucial and an indispensable role in the supply chain of EU market. Their inclusion is of utmost importance.

Discussions at the conference provided valuable insights into the current market dynamics, exploring the challenges of balancing increased demand with sustainable practices and climate change mitigation. Experts emphasized the need for a balanced approach that supports both food security and energy security while advancing environmental stewardship.

The conference also showcased innovative agricultural practices and technologies aimed at enhancing sustainability and climate resilience across various types of vegetable oils. Presentations highlighted advancements in oil production that contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

With the EUDR set to impact global trade in vegetable oils, the conference examined the industry's readiness to comply with new regulation, focusing on the implications for smallholder inclusivity and trade equity. Discussions provided a clearer understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead.

The role of vegetable oils in the renewable energy landscape, particularly in biofuels and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), was another key topic of discussion. Participants explored strategies for advancing the use of vegetable oils in energy while balancing food security needs.

The conference concluded with a strong call for continued collaboration and innovation to drive the vegetable oils sector toward a sustainable future. Discussions underscored the sector's potential to contribute significantly to global food security, environmental protection, and energy sustainability. As the industry adapts to new regulatory environments and evolving market demands, the 3rd SVOC laid the foundation for a more resilient and sustainable vegetable oils sector.

Close to 250 participants from 16 countries including major producing and consuming countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, the European Union, Latin America, United States and Australia along with representatives from international organizations like the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), United Nations for Trade and Conference (UNCTAD), and World Trade Organization (WTO) had actively participated in the 3rd SVOC.