The 21st International Oil Palm Conference Successfully Took Place in Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena de Indias was the venue for the most important event for the palm oil sector in the hemisphere: the 21st International Palm Oil Conference. The gathering brought together more than 2,600 participants from 23 countries, consolidating itself as a key platform for knowledge exchange, showcasing major innovations, and discussing the trends that will shape the future of the industry.

Throughout the Conference, the strategic role of palm oil in the economy and sustainable development of Latin America was highlighted. The event also served as an ideal platform to strengthen alliances among producers, industry associations, companies, and international organizations, with a focus on sustainability, competitiveness, and resilience.

Our CEO, Joseph D’Cruz (JD), traveled from Malaysia to take part in the event with the purpose of holding productive conversations with members and partners from across Latin America, reaffirming RSPO’s strong commitment to the region. During his visit, JD listened firsthand to members’ concerns and expectations, strengthening an open and constructive dialogue. These exchanges are essential for RSPO to continue adapting to local realities and to move forward, together with its members, in overcoming common challenges.

As part of the agenda, RSPO and APSColombia (the national certification body for the palm oil sector in Colombia) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement represents a significant step toward closer collaboration in the country, aiming to align international and national standards, reduce duplication in certification processes, and strengthen producers’ technical capacities.

The MoU will drive progress toward greater harmonization in certification, delivering direct benefits for Colombian producers and supporting the global recognition of sustainable palm oil. It also opens new opportunities for technical cooperation and stronger institutional synergies, contributing to deeper social, environmental, and economic impact.