Malaysian Palm Oil - Navigating Green Compliance Challenges of the EU's Sustainability Frontier

Malaysian palm oil exporters were facing the green compliance challenges of the EU’s New Sustainability Frontier, adapting or leaving?

Dr. Geetha NADARAJAN | Sunway Business School, Malaysia
Tuyen NGUYEN | Nikkei BizRuptors

Published On 10 Feb 2025

Last Updated On 10 Feb 2025

At a glance

Exporting Country

Malaysia

Industry

Agriculture

EUDR Implementation Date

2023

Malaysian Palm Oil Exports to the EU

1.07 million tonnes

(as of 2023)

Abstract

Malaysian palm oil has long been a key pillar of the country’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP and employment. However, its production has been associated with deforestation, biodiversity loss, and environmental concerns, leading to increased scrutiny from global regulators. The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), implemented in 2023, introduced stringent sustainability requirements, mandating deforestation-free supply chains for agricultural commodities, including palm oil. 

This case study examines the implications of the EUDR on Malaysian palm oil exporters, analyzing the challenges they face in adapting to new regulatory demands while maintaining market competitiveness. In addition, it explores Malaysian stakeholders’ response to the EUDR and highlights the necessity for enhanced supply chain transparency, compliance with traceability requirements, and strategic adjustments to production processes. 
 

All rights reserved. © 2025 Nikkei Business Lab Asia. No part of this publication may be copied, stored, or transmitted in any form. Copying or posting is an infringement of copyright.

Disclaimers:

(1) Regarding Case Study Content: This case study is based mainly on secondary data and analysis of publicly available information unless otherwise stated, and is intended solely for educational purposes. Any opinions expressed by the author(s) are designed to facilitate learning discussion and do not serve to illustrate the effectiveness of the company. Additionally, banner images and logos used in the case study are intended for visualization in an educational setting and it is not used to represent or brand the company. For any dispute regarding the content and usage of images and logos, please contact the team.

(2) Regarding University Affiliation and Titles of Authors: The university affiliation and titles of author(s) seen in the case study is based on their affiliation and title during the time of publication. It may or may not represent the current status of said author(s).

cs@nikkeibizruptors.com
Nikkei Business Lab Asia Ltd.No. 8 T One Building, 17th Fl, Sukhumvit soi 40, Sukhumvit Road, Phra Khanong, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110, Thailand