IFC - International Finance CorporationIFC - International Finance Corporation -- » Creating Opportunity...
OverviewStrategySustainabilityBusiness OpportunitiesResourcesContacts
Animal ProductionAquacultureDairyFruits & VegetablesGrainsFats and Oils
Processed Food & BeveragesSugarOther
East Asia & the PacificEurope & Central AsiaLatin America & the CaribbeanMiddle East & North AfricaSouth AsiaSub-Saharan Africa
 

IFC in the Palm Oil Sector


Overview



Sustainable palm oil production can help meet growing world demand for food, especially as a cheaper alternative to other vegetable oils, which has important implications for feeding the world’s poor. In addition, the sector employs millions of rural poor and is a central economic pillar in some tropical low income countries.

IFC is aware of the negative impacts of palm oil development, particularly in Indonesia, when sound environmental and social practices are not followed. While some progress has been made in moving the palm oil industry to a more sustainable footing, we recognize that major challenges remain.

IFC believes that engagement in the palm oil sector is an important part of a strategy to address a number of key market and institutional failures in the sustainability arena while addressing important developmental challenges. IFC believes that it has the potential to help induce positive change in the industry to encourage environmentally sustainable practices and limit further deforestation.

Frequently Asked Questions


Show details for Why is IFC investing in the palm oil sector?Why is IFC investing in the palm oil sector?

Show details for What is the significance of palm oil?What is the significance of palm oil?

Show details for How does IFC ensure that its clients operate in a sustainable way?How does IFC ensure that its clients operate in a sustainable way?

Show details for How does IFC ensure the protection of forests, of wildlife habitat and endangered species that could potentialHow does IFC ensure the protection of forests, of wildlife habitat and endangered species that could potentially be affected?

Show details for How does IFC ensure there is local community support for a client’s plantation, and that Indigenous Peoples’How does IFC ensure there is local community support for a client’s plantation, and that Indigenous Peoples’ rights are pr...