The Indonesian Palm Oil Association (Gapki) projected the palm oil sector will remain the backbone of economy in the midst of Covid-19 pandemic, supported by palm oil industry performance until July 2021 continues to show positive trends, both in the domestic and export markets.

Based on Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) data, until July 2021, palm oil exports reach US$ 18 billion, growing 155% compared to 2020.

“The projection for 2021, palm oil exports will reach US$ 29 billion,” Chairman of Gapki Joko Supriyono said (24/09/21).

In addition, Joko added, oil palm plantation operations in the midst of the pandemic were running normally with the implementation of very strict health protocols. Therefore, all plantation residents, village communities around plantations and oil palm farmers, who are part of the supply chain, continue to earn good incomes, especially supported by the relatively high price of fresh fruit bunch.