KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has launched a high-level diplomatic and trade mission to the People’s Republic of China, led by Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities, Datuk Chan Foong Hin, in a concerted effort to deepen bilateral ties and unlock new commercial avenues for the country’s palm oil industry.
The week-long official visit, taking place from 19 to 24 May, is centred on reinforcing Malaysia’s strategic trade engagement with China — the nation’s third-largest importer of palm-based products. The mission also aims to explore innovation opportunities in downstream applications and expand palm oil utilisation across Chinese industries and cuisines.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities confirmed that the delegation’s itinerary begins in Shanghai, where Datuk Chan will officiate the 20th Anniversary Commemoration Ceremony of the Palm Oil Research and Technical Service Institute of MPOB (PORTSIM) — the Malaysian Palm Oil Board’s research and development hub in China.
Also accompanying the mission are Ministry Secretary General Datuk Yusran Shah Mohd Yusof and MPOB Director General Datuk Dr Ahmad Parveez Ghulam Kadir.
Established in 2005, PORTSIM plays a pivotal role in facilitating technology transfer, advancing product innovation, and promoting the application of Malaysian palm oil in China. Through strategic collaborations with Chinese institutions and industries, the institute supports Malaysia’s ambitions to expand its presence in key downstream segments such as food, oleochemicals, and household detergents.
Following the Shanghai leg, the delegation will proceed to the western region of China, including Chengdu and Chongqing, to engage with state-owned enterprises and local industry leaders. These engagements are designed to deepen commercial cooperation and strengthen trade linkages, particularly in high-growth markets.
A significant aspect of the visit will focus on promoting the incorporation of palm oil into popular Chinese culinary practices — including mala hotpot, a signature dish from Chongqing and the Sichuan province.
One of the highlights of the mission is Datuk Chan’s participation in the 7th Western China International Fair for Investment and Trade (WCIFIT), to be held at the Chongqing International Expo Centre. In conjunction with this, the Deputy Minister will chair strategic roundtable meetings with Western Chinese importers.
The itinerary also includes a courtesy meeting with the Chongqing Municipal People’s Government, aimed at exploring broader collaboration in trade and investment, particularly within the palm oil sector and other key Malaysian commodity exports.
The Ministry underscored that Western China represents a region of dynamic growth, characterised by rising demand for sustainable raw materials and new avenues for value-added partnerships.
China accounted for 10% of Malaysia’s total palm oil export value in 2024, with exports reaching RM10.57 billion, reflecting a 5.11% increase from RM10.06 billion in 2023. According to Oil World statistics, Malaysia currently commands a 26.7% share of the Chinese palm oil market.
The Ministry said the official mission reaffirms Malaysia’s commitment to fostering deeper economic integration with China, expanding market access for Malaysian commodities, and promoting sustainable growth in one of Asia’s most promising regions.
-Bernama
