Palmas de Tumaco: Wisdom from the Land in Colombia’s Pacific Coast

Co-written with Palmas de Tumaco

For over 40 years, Palmas de Tumaco has taken root in Alto Mira, a region of Colombia’s Pacific coast marked by historical challenges, but also by a collective strength that refuses to give up.

This is not just a story about palm oil. It is the story of Palmas de Tumaco, a company that chose to stay, to invest, and to grow alongside its people. A company that listened to the land, learned from it, and understood that to endure, you must build on trust.

After the devastation caused by bud rot, many believed everything was lost. But instead of walking away, the company chose to start over. In 2010, amidst deep technical uncertainty, Palmas de Tumaco made the largest replanting commitment in the region. How did they do it? With the strength of their team, the support of CENIPALMA and above all, the conviction that it is possible to transform reality through commitment.

That same conviction led the company on a five-year journey toward sustainability under the principles of the RSPO. It was not an easy process, but it was a deep and meaningful one. An opportunity to review practices, strengthen community ties, respect labor rights, and protect the natural environment.

In 2025, that effort was recognised with the RSPO Certification. Palmas del Tumaco became the first oil palm plantation in the world to obtain RSPO P&C certification specifically for a 100% hybrid certification unit.

More than a seal, it is a symbol of purpose, proof that it is possible to produce responsible palm oil, with and for the people.

Today, with pride, Palmas del Tumaco shares an endless story, one of resilience, woven with trust, and one that transcends alongside the land and its people.