Introduction – Netherlands’s Palm Oil Market by the Numbers
When you think of palm oil powerhouses, your mind might jump to Indonesia or Malaysia—and rightly so. But did you know the Netherlands ranks as the third-largest exporter of palm oil worldwide? That’s right. Even though the Dutch don’t grow a single palm tree, they’ve turned their geography and infrastructure into a palm oil logistics goldmine.
In 2023 alone, the Netherlands exported around 750,036 metric tons of palm oil and its derivatives, worth a staggering $1.15 billion. That’s nearly 2.3% of global palm oil exports, trailing only behind Indonesia and Malaysia. Within Europe, the Netherlands dominates the scene, accounting for a whopping 59.86% of all EU palm oil exports.
What’s their secret? Strategic location, world-class ports like Rotterdam, and cutting-edge refineries.
If you’re a business looking to source palm oil efficiently and sustainably, a data-driven approach is non-negotiable. Choosing the right supplier involves more than just price—think export volumes, certifications, and global reach. Platforms like Freshdi make that selection process smarter with verified supplier profiles, market insights, and real-time RFQ trends.
Let’s dive into the numbers and meet the top players in this thriving export ecosystem.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Current Demand Data
You might be wondering—if the Netherlands doesn’t grow palm oil, how is it such a big player? The answer lies in its role as a processor and re-exporter.
Processing Capacity
In 2024, the Netherlands processed approximately 1.5 million tons of palm oil. That’s over half of the EU’s total palm oil processing volume. The crude palm oil gets shipped in from Indonesia and Malaysia, refined in Dutch facilities, and sent off to multiple countries across Europe.
Export Value & Destinations
Dutch palm oil made its way to key European markets in 2023:
- Germany: $393 million (271,150 metric tons)
- Belgium: $277 million (185,134 metric tons)
- Poland: $134 million (81,575 metric tons)
- France: $74 million (41,612 metric tons)
- Austria: $53 million (39,047 metric tons)
These numbers show the Netherlands isn’t just a middleman—it’s the artery feeding Europe’s palm oil demand.
Demand Outlook
The Dutch palm oil market was valued at $600.89 million in 2024, with projections shooting up to $816.10 million by 2033. That’s a CAGR of 3.46% from 2025 onwards. The demand isn’t just from food; it spans personal care, detergents, and even biofuels.
Platforms like Freshdi have observed a consistent uptick in RFQ volumes for refined palm oil, especially in the food and cosmetics sectors, signaling robust and diversified demand.
Regulatory Watch
From December 30, 2024, the new EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) kicks in. It requires importers to provide land origin coordinates for products like palm oil. This will shake up supply chains, boosting the value of traceable, certified suppliers.
Top 5 Verified Palm Oil Suppliers in Netherlands – Proven Export Performers
Choosing a supplier is like picking a business partner—you want reliability, transparency, and efficiency. Based on export performance, market presence, certifications, and user feedback on Freshdi, here are the Top 5 Palm Oil Suppliers in the Netherlands for 2025:
1. W&E Holding B.V
- Specialty: Red Palm Oil
- Why They’re Top: Known for high export volumes and rigorous quality control.
- Certifications: RSPO certified, HACCP compliant
- Market Reach: Europe, Middle East, North Africa
- Freshdi Reviews: Highly rated for timely deliveries and transparent sourcing.
2. LIA MOOS
- Specialty: Refined Edible Palm Oil & Sunflower Oil
- Why They’re Top: Strong distribution network and excellent customer service.
- Certifications: ISO 22000, Halal
- Market Reach: EU, Sub-Saharan Africa
- Freshdi Insights: Frequently featured in “Top Supplier” listings based on RFQ fulfillment rates.
3. Cargill B.V.
- Specialty: Fractionated and refined palm oil products
- Why They’re Top: Global supply chain, long-term sustainability programs
- Certifications: RSPO, ISCC, Kosher
- Market Reach: Global
- Freshdi Data: High RFQ responsiveness and contract fulfillment.
4. Sime Darby Oils Zwijndrecht Refinery
- Specialty: Sustainable palm oil derivatives
- Why They’re Top: Part of one of the world’s largest palm oil groups
- Certifications: EUDR-ready, full traceability
- Market Reach: EU and Asia
- Freshdi Feedback: Preferred supplier for sustainability-conscious buyers.
5. IOI Loders Croklaan
- Specialty: Palm-based fats for food and personal care
- Why They’re Top: Innovative R&D and tailored formulations
- Certifications: RSPO, ISO, GMP+
- Market Reach: EU, North America
- Freshdi Highlights: Regularly requested in RFQs for premium product applications.
Dynamic Ranking Note: Rankings can shift based on recent performance, contract wins, and RFQ volumes. Platforms like Freshdi offer real-time supplier rankings, including “Suppliers of the Month” based on buyer feedback and activity.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Value Dynamics & Export Dynamics
Let’s zoom out and look at how the market behaves over time. Knowing the trends can help you make smarter sourcing decisions.
Demand Patterns by Product Type
Refined palm oil continues to be the top variant in Dutch exports, followed by red palm oil and fractionated oils used in cosmetics and industrial applications. The demand from the food sector is stable, but non-food sectors like biofuels and skincare show accelerated growth.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
Palm oil prices typically spike in Q4 due to increased demand from food manufacturers preparing for the holiday season. Similarly, Q2 sees higher prices driven by biofuel blending mandates in several EU countries. Tracking this through platforms like Freshdi can help negotiate better deals in off-peak times.
Buying Strategy Tip:
Historical export data suggests that bulk RFQs placed in Q1 often yield better pricing and lead times. Also, suppliers with consistent export performance like W&E Holding B.V and LIA MOOS tend to maintain stable prices due to long-term contracts with source countries.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Strategic Sourcing
To sum it up, the Netherlands may not grow palm oil, but it fuels Europe’s demand through world-class logistics, refining, and export capabilities. With over $1.15 billion in exports and a 59.86% share in EU palm oil trade, it’s the go-to gateway for quality and volume.
Smart sourcing isn’t just about who’s cheapest. It’s about who can deliver consistently, meet compliance requirements, and scale with your needs. Verified suppliers like W&E Holding B.V and LIA MOOS tick those boxes.
Platforms like Freshdi take the guesswork out of the equation by offering:
- Verified supplier profiles
- Real-time RFQ trends
- Export history and certifications
- Dynamic rankings based on buyer feedback
So whether you’re sourcing bulk palm oil for food manufacturing or high-grade derivatives for cosmetics, let data—and Freshdi—be your compass.
Key Takeaways
- The Netherlands is the #3 global exporter of palm oil, despite not producing it.
- It processes 1.5 million tons annually—over half of the EU’s total.
- Major export markets include Germany, Belgium, and Poland.
- EUDR regulations will reshape sourcing dynamics from 2024 onward.
- Verified suppliers like W&E Holding B.V and LIA MOOS lead the pack in 2025.
- Freshdi offers real-time insights, verified listings, and supplier performance stats.
Palm Oil Buyer’s Checklist (Netherlands Edition)
✅ Verify supplier certifications (RSPO, ISO, Halal)
✅ Match product specs with your end-use (food, personal care, biofuel)
✅ Time your RFQs based on seasonal price trends
✅ Use platforms like Freshdi to compare suppliers
✅ Stay informed about EUDR compliance requirements
Future Outlook
As sustainability regulations tighten and demand diversifies, expect more refined products and certified oils entering the market. Dutch suppliers are already investing in traceability and innovation to stay ahead. For buyers, that means more options—but also more responsibility.
With tools like Freshdi, navigating this evolving landscape becomes a whole lot easier.
FAQs
1. Why is the Netherlands such a major player in palm oil exports if it doesn’t grow any?
Thanks to its strategic location, advanced refineries, and massive port infrastructure, the Netherlands imports, processes, and re-exports palm oil across Europe.
2. How do I verify if a Dutch palm oil supplier is certified or compliant with EU laws?
Use platforms like Freshdi, which list suppliers along with their certifications such as RSPO, ISO, and EUDR readiness.
3. What is the impact of the EUDR on palm oil sourcing?
Starting December 2024, importers must prove their palm oil is deforestation-free with geolocation data. This will impact pricing and supplier selection.
4. When is the best time to source palm oil from the Netherlands?
Q1 generally offers better pricing and lead times, while Q4 sees higher demand and prices due to seasonal food production.
5. Which sectors are driving the most demand for Dutch palm oil?
Food manufacturing leads the way, but personal care, detergents, and biofuel sectors are showing rapid growth as well.
References
- World Bank – WITS Trade Data
- IMARC Group – Netherlands Palm Oil Market
- IMARC Group – Netherlands Vegetable Oil Market
- TrendEconomy – Netherlands Palm Oil Imports
- IndexBox – EU Palm Oil Market Overview 2024
- Reuters – EU Deforestation Ban
- Freshdi – Verified Supplier Marketplace
