Palm oil shortage could be short-lived says expert

Morné Botes, Southern Oil’s Commercial Director, told Business Insider that because South Africa is a net importer of palm oil, Indonesia’s ban on exports will weigh on the supply chain, driving up prices and affecting availability, especially for manufacturers of soap and snacks, and the hotel and catering industries. Botes suggested though that the ban’s impact will not be sustained for longer than a few weeks, given that Indonesia may not be able to absorb the excess oil but that until then more costly alternative options, including Canola, coconut, or Sunflower oil will need to be used.