InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – The Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO) certification is being developed to encompass the entire palm oil supply chain, from upstream sectors to downstream products used in daily life. This was conveyed by Dida Gardera, Expert Staff for Connectivity and Service Development at the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, during a recent seminar.
Dida revealed that there are still several plantation locations undergoing ISPO certification that are located within forest areas. According to him, this situation is a serious concern for the government to ensure that the certification process adheres to land legality principles.
"Some locations currently in the process of obtaining ISPO are still within forest areas. We must ensure that all data from the Ministry of Forestry, the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency, and various related parties are complete and verified. The goal is to ensure that the land is genuinely outside forest areas and complies with regulations," Dida explained, as quoted by InfoSAWIT while attending an event in Bandung in mid-July 2025.
Furthermore, he stated that the strengthening of the ISPO system is not only focused on cultivation aspects in the plantation sector but has also extended to downstream sectors, such as palm oil derivative products used by the public, including cooking oil, shampoo, and soap.
"In the future, ISPO certification must encompass sustainability aspects from all lines, including ensuring where the products come from, whether from female farmers, and how they impact communities and the environment," he said.
Dida also emphasized the importance of innovation in the national palm oil sector, both in terms of technology and strengthening human resources, to ensure that this commodity continues to have added value and high competitiveness in the global market.
"Palm oil is Indonesia's flagship commodity. Therefore, the development of technology and human resources must continue to be enhanced so that this industry contributes even more to the economy," he asserted.
During the occasion, Dida also expressed appreciation for the organization of events that highlight sustainability and the strengthening of the palm oil industry. He noted that forums like this should be held regularly to enhance coordination among stakeholders.
Regarding global trade relations, particularly with the United States, Dida stated that the government continues to maintain communication and is prepared to face various scenarios that may arise.
"We continue to maintain communication within the framework of international trade, including with the United States. While we are still awaiting their official stance, Indonesia is ready for any possibilities," he concluded. (T2)
