The 7th WCIFIT | YB Datuk Chan Foong Hin, Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities of Malaysia: Collaborate with Chongqing enterprises to develop new hotpot oil products

In his view, the WCIFIT boasts a high level of internationalization and precise professional matchmaking, serving as a vital platform for China's western region to showcase its development potential and commitment to openness. "In particular, through the WCIFIT, I have witnessed the rapidly growing industrial vitality and enthusiasm for international cooperation in China's western region. For Malaysia, the WCIFIT is not only a platform to showcase our competitive agricultural products but also a crucial bridge for deepening practical collaboration with local governments and industries in China."

"This is your first time visiting Chongqing - what are your impressions of the municipality so far? With a smile, YB Datuk Chan Foong Hin responded to the reporter's question, saying, 'Chongqing is a municipality where rich historical heritage meets modern dynamism. Its unique topography and diverse industries, particularly in food processing, intelligent manufacturing, and clean energy, demonstrate remarkable growth momentum.

"The New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor is a national strategy, and Chongqing serves as its logistics and operational hub. This corridor not only connects western China with ASEAN countries but also provides efficient inland access for agricultural exporters like Malaysia. Chongqing's strong emphasis on green development and international cooperation lays a solid foundation for our future economic and trade collaboration," said YB Datuk Chan Foong Hin.

During his WCIFIT visit, Chan Foong Hin highlighted palm oil promotion as a key agenda. He explained that palm oil is an extremely versatile vegetable oil, widely used in China's food, daily chemical, feed, and bioenergy sectors. In the food industry, palm oil's stability and flavor performance make it indispensable for products such as hotpot broth, baked goods, and instant noodles. In the household chemical industry, palm oil serves as a vital raw material for manufacturing products such as soap, dishwashing detergent, and shampoo. Meanwhile, it is also being utilized in the development of biodiesel and biodegradable materials.

More importantly, Malaysia is not just a raw material supplier, but a solutions partner capable of assisting Chinese enterprises in developing new product formulations and exploring novel application scenarios. For instance, in sectors like plant-based hotpot broth, halal foods, and functional fats, we can help enterprises enhance product value-added and strengthen market competitiveness.

YB Datuk Chan Foong Hin stated, "palm oil serves as a cornerstone export commodity for Malaysia, while Chongqing represents a vital industrial and consumer hub in western China. Our strong complementary strengths create extensive collaboration potential between both parties. Going forward, we plan to advance cooperation with Chongqing in three key areas.

First, we will establish high-efficiency logistics networks. Leveraging the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, we will facilitate the transportation of Malaysian palm oil via the Port of Beibu Gulf to Chongqing, establishing a stable and high-efficiency supply chain linkage.

Secondly, we will deepen collaboration in downstream industries. We will partner with Chongqing's hotpot broth, ready-to-eat food, and household chemical enterprises to advance palm oil applications in plant-based formulations, halal food products, and functional fat innovations.

Third, we will expand collaboration in scientific research and green certification initiatives. Promoting the alignment of Malaysia's MSPO sustainable certification with China's green standards, we will advance joint R&D and product innovation to establish exemplary green supply chain projects."

"Tomorrow, I will visit Chongqing's renowned hotpot company De Zhuang to explore collaboration opportunities in oil ingredient development and utilization," said Chan Foong Hin. "Malaysia also welcomes Chongqing enterprises to invest in our country, creating mutual benefits for both sides."

Source: New Chongqing - Chongqing Daily