Bisnis Indonesia, 7 February 2019
Indonesian Palm Oil Association (Gapki) Chair Joko Supriyono on the sidelines of 2018 Palm Oil Industry Evaluation and 2019 Estimation on Wednesday (February 6) said crude palm oil production was projected at 49.5 million metric tons this year, or a 4% increase from last year. He predicted CPO production to record a normative growth this year because the industry still relies on old and less-productive plants. In addition, industry players are unable to establish new plantations given the plantation permit moratorium.
Despite the challenges, Joko remained confident that the industry will be able to survive because the government will promote investments, raise exports, and improve productivity. In addition, the government is expected to accelerate the 30% biodiesel blend program this year.