- Global crude palm oil prices showed an upward trend through the quarter, with March recording stronger momentum as supply conditions stayed tight and buying interest improved across major consuming markets.
- Feedstock remained firm due to reduced output in major producing origins, which tightened supply availability and kept market sentiment supportive.
- Downstream demand improved in key Asian markets as food-sector buying and restocking activity increased, adding support to regional price gains.
Asia
Crude palm oil prices in Asia moved upward during the quarter, supported by tighter supply and better downstream demand. In China, prices were about 8.75 RMB/kg (Spot FD) in January and around 9.25 RMB/kg in March, reflecting a 6% increase from January to March. The increase was mainly driven by tight feedstock availability from producing countries, firm market sentiment, and improved demand from the food sector and routine restocking activity. In India, crude palm oil prices were about INR 99.88/kg (FOB) in January and around INR 110.12/kg in March, marking a 7.73% increase over the same period. The rise was supported by improved buying interest, as palm oil remained attractive for edible oil demand, along with steady import-side purchasing and firm sentiment in the broader vegetable oils market.
Europe
In Europe, crude palm oil prices followed a firm trend during the quarter, supported by strong global edible oil sentiment and tight feedstock conditions. Market direction remained upward as buyers tracked firm overseas palm oil values and steady downstream consumption. Demand from the food and biofuel segments kept market sentiment supported, while cautious purchasing limited any sharper movement. Overall, the regional market stayed stable to firm, with price direction largely linked to supply tightness in exporting countries.
North America
In North America, crude palm oil prices also moved on a firm trend, supported by gains in the wider vegetable oils complex and stable downstream demand. Regional sentiment stayed positive as supply-side tightness in global markets continued to influence pricing. Buying interest from food and industrial end-users helped maintain support in the market, even as participants remained watchful of shifts in broader edible oil pricing. The overall trend stayed upward, with market direction guided by firm global fundamentals.