PALMOILMAGAZINE, BANGKOK – The Thai government has officially tightened controls on crude palm oil (CPO) exports in a move aimed at maintaining a balance between domestic supply needs and surging energy demand.
According to Bernama, as cited by Palmoilmagazine.com on April 9, 2026, the policy took effect on April 7, 2026, and will remain in place for one year. Under the new regulation, CPO exports can only proceed with prior approval from relevant authorities.
The measure comes in response to growing biodiesel demand, driven in part by geopolitical tensions in West Asia that have contributed to rising global oil prices.
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Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce stated that the surge in crude oil prices has prompted the energy sector to prepare for higher biodiesel blending ratios in diesel fuel.
“This trend is encouraging Thailand’s energy sector to increase biodiesel blending, while at the same time export demand for CPO is also rising, leading to greater pressure on domestic supply,” the ministry said in an official statement.
Meanwhile, the Central Committee on Prices of Goods and Services (CCPS) emphasized that the export control policy is essential to ensure adequate domestic availability of CPO.
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The policy is also designed to maintain balance across various sectors—including household consumption, industrial use, and energy—while ensuring sufficient supply throughout the year.
As one of the world’s leading producers, Thailand ranks as the third-largest palm oil producer globally. In 2026, the country is projected to produce approximately 3.94 million tons of CPO.
Through this policy, the Thai government aims to anticipate global demand pressures while maintaining stability in domestic supply and pricing. (P2)
