29.04.202604:04:55UTC+00Palm Oil Edges Lower

Malaysian palm oil futures edged lower, trading around MYR 4,520 per tonne, pressured by weakness in Dalian palm olein and Chicago soyoil. Activity remained subdued as softer export prospects dampened sentiment. Cargo surveyors reported that shipments from April 1–25 fell by 15.7%–16.8% from March, in line with a typical post-festive slowdown. Buyers also scaled back near-term purchases after the recent price rally and amid comfortable stock levels following strong February exports, according to AmInvestment Bank.

Downside, however, was limited by a weaker ringgit, which enhances export competitiveness, and firmer crude oil prices after reports that the U.S. may extend its blockade of Iranian ports. Looking ahead, the Malaysian Palm Oil Council expects prices to remain above MYR 4,500 in the near term, underpinned by elevated energy costs and potential El Niño risks. Market participants are now awaiting China’s upcoming PMI data for clearer signals on demand conditions in key importing markets.