Bogor, West Java (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto has announced that Indonesia will ban the export of palm oil waste, including used cooking oil, to ensure the resource is utilized for national interests—particularly in advancing energy self-sufficiency.
Speaking at the 2026 National Coordination Meeting of Central and Regional Governments in Sentul, Bogor, West Java, on Monday, Prabowo emphasized that Indonesia’s vast palm oil potential must be maximized for domestic needs.
“Palm oil waste, including used cooking oil, is material for aviation fuel. So, I am closing it off to other nations. I ban the export of palm oil waste and used cooking oil. It must first serve the people of Indonesia,” he declared.
Prabowo described palm oil as a strategic commodity with wide-ranging derivatives, from cooking oil and food products to soap and biodiesel.
He referred to it as a “miracle crop” for its ability to produce essential goods demanded worldwide.
He noted that many global leaders have expressed interest in Indonesia’s crude palm oil (CPO), underscoring its strategic value.
However, he stressed that Indonesia’s national interests must take precedence, with raw materials such as used palm oil directed toward domestic biodiesel and aviation fuel production.
Prabowo explained that developing palm oil-based energy would reduce Indonesia’s reliance on imported fuel.
His vision is not only for Indonesia to achieve self-sufficiency in biodiesel but also to emerge as one of the world’s leading producers of aviation fuel.
“Most importantly, palm oil allows us to produce diesel. Biodiesel will free us from foreign dependence. Those who want gasoline, fine, pay world prices. But our people can live with diesel,” he said.
