#Indonesia #Jakarta #Sustainable Palm Oil #RSPO #Indonesia Fires

RSPO RT2026: Addressing Vital Issues in Sustainable Palm Oil

The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) hosted the annual RT2026 conference, attracting a diverse array of global stakeholders. This pivotal event aimed to galvanize action towards a more sustainable palm oil industry, despite the numerous obstacles posed by ecological and geopolitical challenges. The agenda centered on three critical areas: the ongoing issues with Indonesia’s wildfires, the introduction of a Single Export Gate, and the imperative for smallholder inclusion.

Understanding the Impact of Wildfires on Palm Oil

Indonesia has faced severe wildfires over the past year, exacerbated by one of the strongest El Niño events in recorded history, devastating over 1.9 million hectares of land as of September 2026. For the palm oil sector, this situation is particularly dire, as fires have historically marred its reputation. However, RSPO’s data indicates that fires within RSPO certified concessions burned at a rate significantly lower than the industry average.

During the opening address, RSPO’s CEO, Joseph D'Cruz, acknowledged the scrutiny faced by the industry but underscored the proactive measures taken by members to combat these wildfires. Using data from Nusantara Atlas, D'Cruz reported that only approximately 14,500 hectares within certified concessions were burned, accounting for a mere 0.8% of the total fire damage across the country. He emphasized that no evidence supports the notion that any RSPO-certified entity intentionally started these fires, asserting the organization’s commitment to self-monitoring.

Smallholder Inclusion: A Key Focus

Smallholders are central to Indonesia’s palm oil industry, representing nearly half of the total production. With 77% of the world's RSPO certified smallholders located in Indonesia, it became essential to create pathways for these farmers to engage in sustainable practices. At the conference, 45 new independent smallholder groups from various countries including Colombia, Malaysia, and Peru achieved RSPO Certification.

This year’s RT2026 also featured the RSPO Independent Smallholder Business Matching event, connecting smallholders with potential buyers. Notable participants such as Kao Corporation and Nestlé S.A. were recognized for their support of smallholder initiatives through RSPO Credit purchases.

The Single Export Gate Initiative

One of the most significant policy advancements discussed was Indonesia's establishment of a Single Export Gate for palm oil. This initiative, spearheaded by PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI), seeks to streamline the export process for strategic commodities while enhancing regulatory compliance.

In a special dialogue at the event, DSI’s CEO, Luke Mahony, highlighted the importance of collaboration between sustainability efforts and market access. He stated, “DSI aims to facilitate—never obstruct. We are focused on upholding industry standards and building trust in the export of Indonesian palm oil.” This move is expected to provide transparency and boost global confidence in the nation's palm oil supply chain.

Conclusion: Building a Sustainable Future

What emerged from RSPO RT2026 is a resounding call for unity within the industry. Members are encouraged to utilize data and evidence to communicate the positive strides being made in the sector, as D'Cruz indicated. The industries’ image and the livelihoods of millions hinge on a collective effort to combat the negative narratives surrounding palm oil and foster a sustainable future. The results from this global gathering embody progress toward making palm oil truly sustainable, benefiting both people and the planet.