KUALA LUMPUR: The European Union (EU) and Malaysia will continue to work closely on implementing the forthcoming EU Deforestation-Free Regulation (EUDR).
They agreed to also cooperate on 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.
This commitment was confirmed during the virtual meeting between Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani and EU commissioner for environment, maritimd affairs and fisheries Virginijus Sinkevičius on Tuesday.
"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 ministry said in a statement.
"The EU remains an important market for sustainably-produced Malaysian commodities. The two parties agreed to renew their efforts to ensure the current positive trade flows between Malaysia and the EU will continue uninterrupted."
It added that 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.
"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," the ministry said.
Malaysian oil palm planted area comprises of large estates (73 per cent) and smallholders (27 per cent).
Johari, meawhile, emphasised the role of the MSPO certification scheme in strengthening efforts to meet EUDR requirements.
This includes global sustainability requirements namely traceability, deforestation-free, legitimate land title and good labour practices.
He 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," the ministry said.
The EUDR is aimed at contributing to the global fight against deforestation and forest degradation by addressing both legal and illegal deforestation.
It responds to the commitment made by the international community to end deforestation.
It covers seven commodities namely rubber, wood, cattle, palm oil, soya, coffee and cocoa produced in the EU or abroad.