KUALA LUMPUR: The United States has cleared FGV Holdings Bhd
(FGV) to export palm oil and palm oil products to the US effective Jan 15 2026, following the modification of the Withhold Release Order (WRO).
In a statement today, FGV said US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has confirmed that products from FGV, its subsidiaries and joint ventures are now admissible into US commerce, provided they comply with all applicable US laws and regulations.
"FGV wishes to express our appreciation to the CBP for its guidance and responsiveness in modifying the WRO and recognising the group’s effort in remediating and enhancing labour practices.
"The group also extends our gratitude to the Malaysian government and all stakeholders for their continued support and understanding throughout this process," the statement said.
The group said the modification follows FGV’s sustained and comprehensive efforts to strengthen its labour practices in line with national regulations and international standards.
"These efforts included the implementation of a robust action plan to ensure that there are no International Labour Organisation (ILO) indicators of forced labour and child labour in FGV’s operations," it added.
Among key actions undertaken by FGV include strengthening recruitment procedures to align with ethical and responsible recruitment principles and standards, implementing a recruitment fee reimbursement programme and collaborating with the National Union of Plantation Workers (NUPW) to promote workers’ right to freedom of association and union membership.
Group chief executive officer Datuk Fakhrunniam Othman said the WRO modification is an important milestone for FGV and reflects the progress made by consistently doing things right and ethically.
"Through sustained reforms across our operations, we have strengthened labour practices, safeguarded human rights and embedded sustainability into every aspect of our business.
"This outcome demonstrates that our commitment to responsible and ethical practices enables FGV to meet international standards and maintain access to key markets such as the US," he said. - Bernama
