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In July, Indonesia's Deputy Foreign Minister Arif Havas Oegroseno announced a collaboration with BRICS nations and other organizations to develop palm oil standards, responding to criticism of the EU’s deforestation regulation. The initiative aims to prioritize the needs of developing countries and smallholder farmers, as Indonesia and Malaysia push for sustainable palm oil practices amidst concerns that the EU regulations do not account for local efforts. Both countries have implemented certification schemes to enhance sustainability, yet face challenges in enforcement and compliance.