Palm Oil Conclave 2025: A push for fact-based dialogue on palm oil in India

Bhopal, The Palm Oil Conclave 2025, organised by the Asian Palm Oil Alliance (APOA), Solidaridad and the Solvent Extractors Association of India (SEA), concluded in Bhopal with a clear message: India needs a transparent, evidence-driven national conversation on palm oil. The aim is to dispel long-standing myths around health, markets and sustainability.

Held under the theme “Palm Oil Dialogues: Changing Mindsets – Health, Market, Climate”, the conclave brought together more than 200 experts from nutrition science, medicine, FMCG, food processing, journalism, academia and industry. Speakers stressed that Indian consumers deserve clear, science-based information to make informed dietary choices.

APOA Chairman Atul Chaturvedi said India has for years been influenced by external narratives on palm oil, and it is time to build a conversation that reflects the country's own needs and realities. He added that the conclave marks an important step in rebuilding consumer confidence.

Solidaridad Asia Managing Director Dr. Shatadru Chattopadhayay noted that information on palm oil is often scattered or misleading. Through the India Palm Oil Sustainability (IPOS) Framework, Solidaridad aims to strengthen a science-led, farmer-centric and responsible supply chain. “Sustainability and development must move together,” he said.

Experts from the National Institute of Nutrition and the medical community presented scientific insights on palm oil’s fatty acid profile, its safe use in Indian diets and its role in food security. Senior journalist Mrityunjay Kumar Jha addressed public and media concerns through evidence-based clarifications.

APOA Secretary General Dr. Suresh Motwani emphasised that palm oil is not just a commodity but a practical tool that strengthens India’s food and nutrition security. He highlighted its essential vitamins, balanced fatty acid composition and global versatility, calling for research-based conversations to replace misconceptions.

Godrej Agrovet’s CEO (Oil Palm Business) Sougata Neogi said the conclave offers a timely opportunity as consumers increasingly prioritise health and nutrition, paving the way for a more responsible palm oil ecosystem in India.

SEA Executive Director B. V. Mehta stated that self-reliance begins in the fields. Better seeds, scientific guidance and modern processing can help India make significant progress in reducing its edible oil import dependence.

A product exhibition showcasing palm-oil-based foods and value-added items drew strong interest from industry professionals, students, entrepreneurs and consumers.

A book titled “Oil Palm Statistics in India: Trends and Insights” was also released, offering an in-depth analysis of India’s oil palm sector, global benchmarks, policy direction and future opportunities. Solidaridad shared key results from its climate-smart agriculture model, including weather-based advisories, soil-health improvements and farmer-focused innovations.

World Food Prize laureate Prof. Rattan Lal and Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries Secretary General Izana Saleh addressed the gathering through video messages, underscoring the importance of sustainability, soil health and global cooperation.

About the Organisations

Asian Palm Oil Alliance (APOA)
A regional coalition of major palm-oil-consuming nations in Asia—India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Pakistan—APOA works to promote responsible, sustainable and economically viable palm oil value chains. It focuses on harmonising standards, sharing scientific knowledge and strengthening consumer trust through fact-based dialogue.

Solidaridad
An international civil society organisation dedicated to improving farmer livelihoods, restoring soil health and promoting climate-resilient, regenerative agriculture. In India, it works with governments, research bodies, FPOs and rural communities to build sustainable supply chains and long-term rural prosperity.

Solvent Extractors Association of India (SEA)
Established in 1963, SEA is the country’s leading association representing the vegetable oil and oilseed industry. It supports policy dialogue, market research, capacity building and sustainable production, while working to reduce import dependency and ensure transparency and long-term resilience in India’s edible oil sector.