0243 GMT - Indonesia's decision to defer the B50 policy--which mandates a 50% palm-based biodiesel blend--this year underscores structural challenges rather than a simple timing issue, TA Securities analyst Angeline Chin says in a note. These include the need to stabilize the biodiesel fund, narrow the cost gap between biodiesel and conventional diesel, and address logistics, infrastructure and operational readiness, she notes. From a regional perspective, Malaysia remains better-positioned in CPO exports, benefiting from lower export duties that enhance cost competitiveness and pricing flexibility, she reckons. Indonesia's higher export levy, while supporting domestic subsidies, raises export costs and may constrain price competitiveness, she adds. TA Securities maintains a neutral rating on Malaysia's plantation sector, rates Kuala Lumpur Kepong, TSH Resources and United Malacca at buy. (yingxian.wong@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

January 19, 2026 21:43 ET (02:43 GMT)

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