Top Palm Kernel Oil Producing Countries

Palm kernel oil, extracted from the seeds of the oil palm (Elaeis guineensis), is predominantly produced in tropical regions, with Indonesia and Malaysia leading global production. Together, these two Southeast Asian nations account for over 80% of the world’s palm kernel oil output, thanks to their favorable climates and extensive plantations. Nigeria, Thailand, and Colombia also contribute significantly, though on a much smaller scale. Historically, the oil palm is native to West and Central Africa, where its oil has been used for centuries in local diets and rituals. Commercial cultivation began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when European colonial powers introduced the crop to Southeast Asia, recognizing its economic potential. The rapid expansion of plantations in Indonesia and Malaysia during the late 20th century, driven by global demand for edible oils and processed foods, cemented their dominance in palm kernel oil production. Today, palm kernel oil is a key ingredient in food products, cosmetics, and industrial applications worldwide.

Data from United Nations FAO Stat