PALMOILMAGAZINE, JAKARTA — The Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI) has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that palm oil utilization continues to prioritize domestic needs, particularly for the national biodiesel program.
GAPKI Chairman, Eddy Martono, explained that Indonesia is currently implementing the mandatory B40 biodiesel program, with annual consumption projected at nearly 14 million tons. “If domestic biodiesel supply falls short, exports will not be permitted. The principle is clear: national interest comes first,” Eddy emphasized during an online discussion attended by Palmoilmagazine.com on Monday (22/9/2025).
He acknowledged, however, that debates remain over which strategy offers greater economic benefit—boosting biodiesel mandates at home or expanding exports of crude palm oil (CPO) and its derivatives. According to Eddy, the government continues to conduct in-depth studies to weigh the economic impacts of both options.
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“It’s important to assess which path brings more benefits—expanding domestic biodiesel use or widening export markets. We can also draw lessons from other countries’ experiences. But for GAPKI, the priority is clear: secure domestic needs first, and only then consider exports,” Eddy concluded. (P2)
