Between Discourse and Field: The Socio-Environmental Impacts of Chinese Foreign Direct Investment in Indonesia's Palm Oil Sector

Abstract

Indonesia's palm oil industry, the world's largest supplier, faces significant scrutiny because of its severe environmental and social impacts. The expansion of Chinese companies in this sector has raised concerns about exacerbating existing problems. This study examines the case of Jade (pseudonym), a Chinese-owned palm oil company, to assess the socio-environmental consequences of Chinese investments in Indonesia. Employing a dual methodology combining an analysis of public discourse with primary field data, the research reveals the complexity and contradictions within Chinese, global and local perspectives on the company's operations, highlighting a collision of priorities: Economic growt..