Call for Proposals: Market Potential and Opportunities Study for Sustainable Palm Oil in Thailand and Global Markets

The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), in collaboration with key national and international partners, invites experienced economists, economic research institutes, or consulting firms to submit proposals for the implementation of a Market Potential and Opportunities Study for Sustainable Palm Oil in Thailand and Global Markets.

Background

Thailand is the world’s third-largest producer of palm oil and has made notable progress in advancing RSPO Ccertification across its supply chain. As global markets increasingly demand deforestation-free, traceable, and ESG-compliant commodities, there is a strategic opportunity to strengthen Thailand’s positioning as a reliable and competitive source of certified sustainable palm oil (CSPO).

This study aims to address existing gaps in market intelligence, buyer expectations, and competitive positioning, and to provide actionable insights to support market development, policy formulation, and investment decisions for Thailand’s sustainable palm oil sector.

Objectives

The assignment will generate evidence-based economic and market analysis, including:

• Assessment of global and regional CSPO demand and supply trends
• Analysis of buyer requirements, sustainability standards, and traceability expectations
• Competitive economic benchmarking of Thailand against key palm oil–producing countries
• Evaluation of domestic market dynamics and RSPO uptake
• Development of strategic market positioning, investment, and policy recommendations.

Scope of Work

The selected consultant or firm will undertake a comprehensive economic and market study covering global and domestic palm oil markets, regulatory and sustainability frameworks, buyer behaviour, competitive positioning, branding opportunities, and strategic roadmapping, using a combination of desk research, quantitative analysis, primary data collection, and stakeholder consultations.

Expected Deliverables

Key outputs include:

• Market Intelligence and Economic Analysis Report
• Buyer Insights Report
• Competitive Benchmarking Report
• Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan
• Stakeholder Presentation Package.

Duration

The assignment is expected to be completed within 4–6 months from contract signing.

Consultant / Economist Qualifications

Interested applicants should demonstrate:

• Proven experience as an economist or economic research lead in palm oil, sustainable commodities, or agri-food markets
• Strong expertise in palm oil market dynamics, pricing, trade flows, and sustainability certification systems [e.g. RSPO, International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC)]
• Demonstrated experience in market forecasting, competitiveness analysis, and policy-relevant economic studies
• Ability to conduct multi-country research, particularly in Asia and key international markets
• A strong track record of delivering strategic, evidence-based recommendations to industry, governments, or international organisations.

Submission

Interested economists, research teams, or firms are invited to submit a short proposal (maximum 5 pages) outlining their proposed methodology, relevant experience, team composition (including the lead economist), indicative timeline, and budget.

Proposals must be submitted electronically by 31 January 2026 to: [email protected].

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further discussions.