EU-MALAYSIA JOINT PRESS STATEMENT ON EU DEFORESTATION- FREE REGULATION (EUDR) AND THE MALAYSIAN SUSTAINABLE PALM OIL (MSPO) CERTIFICATION SCHEME

1. The EU and Malaysia will continue to work closely together on the implementation of the forthcoming EU Deforestation-Free Regulation (EUDR), and how Malaysia's sustainable certification standard for palm oil (MSPO) provides readiness and assurances under EUDR for supply chain partners and regulators in the EU.

2. On 24 April 2024, under the format of a virtual conference, the EU Commissioner for Environment and Fisheries, Mr. Virginijus Sinkevičius and Malaysia's Minister of Plantation and Commodities, Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani discussed the EUDR and the role of MSPO.

3. Commissioner Sinkevičius commended Malaysia's efforts to bring deforestation levels down to unprecedented low levels, and acknowledged Malaysia's commitment to certified sustainable commodity production. The EU remains an important market for sustainably- produced Malaysian commodities.

4. The two parties agreed to renew their efforts to ensure the current positive trade flows between Malaysia and the EU will continue uninterrupted. Both parties wished for continued fruitful cooperation to ensure legality and sustainability of key commodities through the Joint Task Force on EUDR that was established in 2023.

5. Commissioner Sinkevičius stressed the EU's readiness to continue working jointly with Malaysia towards enhancing deforestation-free supply chains. In this context, the EU will support the nationally mandated sustainable production of Malaysian palm oil in compliance with EUDR requirements. Malaysian oil palm planted area comprises of large estates (73%) and smallholders (27%).

6. Minister Johari emphasised the role of the MSPO certification scheme in strengthening efforts to meet EUDR requirements, which includes global sustainability requirements, namely, traceability, deforestation-free, legitimate land title and good labour practices.

7. Minister Johari stressed that Malaysia remains steadfast in its commitment to attaining sustainability targets and adhering to global standards. Commissioner Sinkevičius welcomed this commitment and signalled the EU's support for Malaysia's efforts.

24th April 2024