Top 10 Stories of 2025

RSPO has marked a year of significant progress. From launching prisma to strengthening RSPO Standards, expanding market recognition to forging global partnerships, 2025 has been defined by collaboration, innovation, and a clear commitment to transformation across the palm oil sector. Here is a rundown of our top stories that shaped a memorable year in sustainable palm oil:

Strengthening Standards for Independent Smallholders

One of the year’s most significant achievements was the official implementation of the 2024 RSPO Independent Smallholder (ISH) Standard. This updated Standard reinforces our long-standing commitment to bringing smallholders into global sustainable supply chains, ensuring practical, accessible, and inclusive requirements designed to support continuous improvement. With smallholders contributing 40% share of global palm oil production, this advancement marks an important step toward a more equitable sector.

prisma Goes Live

A major leap in digital transformation came with the launch of prisma, RSPO’s new platform designed to streamline certification and licence management for members and certification bodies. By bringing greater clarity, consistency, and real-time visibility to certification processes, prisma marks a foundational upgrade to RSPO’s digital ecosystem.

Continued Recognition in the Dutch Market

Recognition of the RSPO Label remained strong in Europe. In a review by Milieu Centraal, RSPO once again retained its position among the 13 most trustworthy sustainability labels in the Dutch market. This sustained confidence underscores the credibility of the RSPO Certification system and its relevance in one of Europe’s most sustainability-conscious markets.

A Decade of Impact in China

This year also commemorated ten years of RSPO’s work in China. Over the past decade, RSPO has helped accelerate the country’s transition toward sustainable palm oil through policy engagement, member support, and partnerships with leading companies. The anniversary highlighted the growing momentum of certified sustainable palm oil in one of the world’s most influential consumer markets that’s setting the stage for continued transformation ahead.

RT2025: A Call for Inclusion, Technology, and New Voices

At RT2025, the spotlight was on inclusion, innovation, and the next generation of sustainability leaders. The conference emphasised the critical role of smallholders in the palm oil sector and showcased how technology, from farm-level tools to traceability systems, can drive productivity, transparency, and long-term resilience. YOUth @ RT2025 participation stood out as a highlight, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to the discussions.

Newly Certified: 22 Independent Smallholder Groups from Five Countries

This year also saw a major milestone: 22 independent smallholder groups achieved RSPO certification, including 14 from Indonesia, 1 from Malaysia, 2 from Peru, 1 from Ghana and 4 from Thailand, demonstrating the global reach and impact of sustainable practices. To further support these producers, an inaugural Business Matchmaking event at the sidelines of RT2025 connected them with buyers committed to responsible sourcing, fostering new opportunities for growth and collaboration.

Expanding Global Partnerships

Collaboration remained at the heart of RSPO’s strategy, with a series of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed across regions and sectors. Key partnerships included:

• Strengthening smallholder support in Malaysia through joint efforts with NASH and ASB United.
  
• Advancing biodiversity conservation and sustainability awareness in China with Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo.
  
• Establishing reciprocal membership with the Spanish Foundation on Sustainable Palm Oil to expand outreach in Europe.
  
• Partnering with APKASINDO to enhance inclusive growth, certification, and market access for smallholders in Indonesia.
  
• Renewing the MoU with the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) to strengthen global conservation and consumer awareness.
  
• Renewing and expanding commitments in Mexico to reinforce sustainable palm production.
  
• Working with Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) to advance sustainability-focused research and development.
  

Together, these agreements reflect RSPO’s expanding global footprint and its collaborative approach to driving change.

RSPO Governance Advancements: ExCo Formation

In recognition of the need for robust and agile oversight, the RSPO Board of Governors has greenlit the creation of an Executive Committee (ExCo) to support operational decision-making, following the proposal’s approval at the 22nd General Assembly of RSPO. This governance enhancement is designed to ensure stronger continuity, faster implementation, and improved strategic alignment across RSPO’s work.

First RSPO Buyers Meetup in the Peruvian Amazon

We held the first RSPO Buyer Meetup in Peru, held in the Peruvian Amazon. The event brought together Latin American smallholders and major global brands to explore opportunities for market access, sustainability commitments, and shared value creation. The gathering marked a meaningful step in expanding RSPO’s engagement in Latin America and elevating the role of smallholders in regional and international supply chains.

RSPO is Now on TikTok!

We are now officially on TikTok! expanding our reach to new audiences on a dynamic, fast-growing platform. This presence allows us to share insights, updates, and stories about sustainable palm oil with a broader and more diverse community.

Find us at @rspo.official!