Kuala lumpur: The Plantation and Commodities Ministry (KPK) has advised palm oil buyers from China to negotiate with local industry players to enjoy better palm oil prices. Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani stated this recommendation follows a decrease in Malaysia’s palm oil exports to China due to lower soybean oil prices.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Johari pointed out the price difference between soybean oil and palm oil, which stands at approximately US$120 per tonne. As a result, China sees soybean oil as an alternative for domestic use. He advised Chinese palm oil buyers to engage with Malaysian industry players and suggested that committing to purchasing palm oil over a one-year period might grant them discounts. This advice was conveyed during a dialogue session with palm oil buyers from China.

Johari also encouraged Chinese companies to establish a presence in Malaysia by forming partnerships with Malaysian investors. He highlighted China’s extensive technological capabilities and strong research and development in the palm oil sector. By forming joint ventures, Chinese companies could become truly Malaysian entities and gain access to the global market alongside local investors.

Earlier, the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) organized a trade networking visit for 37 prominent Chinese palm oil buyers to strengthen partnerships between both nations. The visit, held from November 25-27, 2025, included key site visits to plantation and refinery facilities, offering participants first-hand insights into Malaysia’s sustainable and high-quality production ecosystem.