Markets and Trade
AreaMalaysia
Commodity GroupOilseeds, oils and meals
CommodityPalm oil
Date01/11/2017
Policy CategoryTrade
Policy InstrumentTrade standard
DescriptionSaw the state of Sabah proceed with its own local palm oil certification strategy, while the federal Government moved ahead with nationwide implementation of the MSPO standard.
NotesAccording to local press reports, the Malaysian state of Sabah intends to proceed with its own palm oil certification strategy – while the federal Government moves ahead with nationwide implementation of the MSPO standard. Reportedly, Sabah’s State Cabinet opted for the introduction of jurisdictional certification at state level back in 2015, i.e. before MSPO was launched. Under the local scheme, all palm oil produced within the state is required to undergo – over the 2015–2025 period – sustainability certification. The programme’s three main goals are i) to achieve zero loss of high conservation value and high carbon stock areas, ii) to exclude social conflict, and iii) to improve smallholder sustainability.