China's increasing focus on sustainability helps to drive the development of the palm oil industry in more environmentally friendly and socially responsible ways, according to an industry expert.

As the world's third-largest consumer of palm oil, China imports over 6 million tons annually, according to a report by the Coconut Research Institute of Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences. Rizal Affandi Lukman, secretary-general of the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries, or CPOPC, said that China's growing emphasis on sustainability has been a major catalyst for the upgrade in the palm oil industry.

Lukman also expressed anticipation for deepening cooperation with China in related fields in the future. Last November, the CPOPC signed a memorandum of understanding with the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce and Animal By-Products, and the World Resources Institute China to enhance cooperation between China and palm oil-producing countries.

The China National Cereals, Oils, and Foodstuffs Corporation, a state-owned agribusiness company, has also partnered with Sime Darby Plantation Berhad, a Malaysian palm oil company, to boost trade in sustainably produced palm oil, with emphasis on adherence to environmental and social governance criteria, including zero-deforestation commitments.

"Chinese companies and research institutions are playing a pivotal role in advancing the sustainability of the palm oil industry through collaborative research and technological innovation," Lukman told China Daily on April 22 during his visit to Beijing.

A notable example is the collaboration between Tsinghua University and the Malaysian Palm Oil Board, which aims to demonstrate the viability of palm oil-based biodiesel in reducing carbon emissions, according to Lukman.

"China's leadership in low-carbon industries creates significant opportunities to integrate sustainable palm oil into its supply chains. Looking ahead, the CPOPC aims to deepen collaboration with Chinese stakeholders to scale up sustainable practices and raise consumer awareness," he added.

The CPOPC is an intergovernmental organization established by Indonesia and Malaysia in 2015, that aims to foster, develop, and fortify collaboration among member countries in the oil palm cultivation and industry.

yangran1@chinadaily.com.cn