Malaysia raises palm-based biodiesel blend in diesel to B15 from June 1 to curb crude import reliance

Malaysia has lifted the palm oil methyl ester (PME) blend in nationwide diesel to 15% (B15) from 10% (B10) from June 1, with B20 already in place in some areas. The government is aiming to conserve diesel reserves amid shipping disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz, with stockpiles projected to last only until July. Officials expect the move to cut diesel consumption by 23 million litres a month, or about 5% of demand. The policy will use an additional 300,000 tonnes of palm oil for domestic biodiesel production without affecting exports.