Top Palm Kernels Producing Countries

Palm kernels, the edible seeds of the oil palm fruit, are primarily produced in tropical regions, with Nigeria, Indonesia, and Malaysia leading global production. Historically, the oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) is native to West and Central Africa, where it has been cultivated for centuries for its oil-rich fruit and kernels. During the colonial era in the 19th and early 20th centuries, European powers introduced oil palm to Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia and Malaysia, where it thrived due to favorable climate and large-scale plantation agriculture. By the late 20th century, these two countries had become the dominant producers, leveraging advances in agronomy and processing technology. Today, Indonesia and Malaysia together account for over 80% of the world’s palm kernel output, while Nigeria remains the top African producer. Palm kernels are valued for their oil, used in food products, cosmetics, and industrial applications, making them a significant agricultural commodity in the global market.

Data from United Nations FAO Stat