Kuala lumpur: The African region is set to become a key driver of global palm oil dynamics over the next decade, emerging as a major market for the commodity, an expert said.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Wilmar International Ltd chief sustainability officer Jeremy Goon Kin Wai emphasized the need for market players to shift their focus towards Africa, leveraging the region's strong long-term structural demand driven by population growth. "Africa will shape palm oil demand dynamics for decades, as a consumer and producer. But unlocking this potential (market) demand, it depends on supportive and consistent policies, infrastructure and logistics, clear land governance, and pragmatic sustainability frameworks," he noted during a panel session titled 'CEO Roundtable: The Next Decade for Malaysian Palm Oil.' The session was moderated by Malaysia Palm Oil Council (MPOC) chief executive officer Belvinder Sron at the 37th Palm and Lauric Oils Price Outlook Conference and Exhibition (POC) 2026.

FGV Holdings Bhd group chief executive officer Datuk Fakhrunniam Othman pointed out that land utilization is a significant constraint for the palm oil industry. He stressed the importance of assessing the availability of land globally and optimizing its management and use. "Land exploration is no longer the main growth driver. The future lies in the possible new improvements, operational optimization, and diversification that unlock the value. Ultimately, land strategy is not just about actors and productivity. It's about building resilience, creating a set of qualities, and supporting people and nation-building," he stated.

He further advised that to achieve yield growth, the industry should focus on better planting and yield, efficient and well-planned replanting, and operational optimization at the estate level.