PUTRAJAYA: The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority's (NVWA) recognition of the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification as a private control system under the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) framework reinforces the readiness of the nation's palm oil industry to meet the European Union market requirements.
Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad said following an assessment, MSPO had been accepted as a third-party assurance system that could support regulatory oversight related to EUDR compliance.
She said that the recognition reinforces MSPO's position as Malaysia's national sustainability standard, with a well-structured certification, audit and regulatory framework.
"This enables MSPO-certified Malaysian palm oil shipments to be considered under NVWA's appropriate supervisory procedures, subject to the requirements set out under the EUDR," she said in a statement on Friday (July 3).
Noraini said the Netherlands holds an important position in the European palm oil trade, as Rotterdam – its second-largest city and Europe's largest port – is one of the region's main entry points for agricultural commodities.
She said the recognition is timely, given that the EUDR is set to take effect on large and medium-sized operators on Dec 30, 2026, followed by small operators in June 2027.
"The recognition also supports the Malaysian palm oil industry's readiness to meet international sustainability, traceability and supply chain compliance requirements, including through the implementation of MSPO.
"The recognition further reinforces Malaysia's efforts to develop a sustainable, responsible and competitive palm oil industry, in line with international market requirements, while safeguarding the country's commodity exports," she added.
The Plantation and Commodities Ministry said it would continue to strengthen the implementation of MSPO, together with relevant agencies, certification bodies, auditors, industry players and international strategic partners.
Efforts would focus on compliance, auditing, traceability and guidance for smallholders and industry players to support the palm oil sector's preparedness for the implementation of the EUDR. – Bernama
