Early this year, Sime darby Bhd announced a restructuring plan that will result in the creation of three independent companies: Sime Darby Plantation Bhd, Sime Darby Property Bhd and a leaner Sime Darby Bhd, which will focus on the trading and logistic sectors.
Operating independently, each company is expected to benefit from direct access to capital markets and funding, and improved capital management. Analysts and industry observers are especially positive on the outlook for Sime Darby Plantation, the most profitable unit in the current conglomerate. It is the world’s largest oil palm operation, accounting for 4% of global palm oil production, and nearly a quarter of the world’s certified sustainable palm oil (CSPO).