From 19–23 October 2026, Taru Wangi attended the IFEAT 2026 Bangkok Conference in Bangkok, Thailand. From the Welcome Reception to the Closing Banquet, the five-day event was a chance to catch up with familiar faces, meet new people across the essential oil industry, and exchange ideas about the market and its changing dynamics.
Patchouli Oil in the Spotlight
Patchouli oil came up in many of our conversations throughout the week. With prices reaching high levels and fluctuating significantly, supply availability, consistent quality, and pricing were on many people’s minds.
These conversations also brought attention to what was happening at the source. Changes in growing conditions can affect production and availability, with consequences that reach far beyond the farm.
One moment that stood out to us was seeing a Taru Wangi article referenced during a conference session discussing the dry season in Indonesia and its impact on patchouli oil production. It was interesting to see a topic familiar to us from our work in Indonesia become part of a wider industry discussion.
Sustainability in Focus
Sustainability and traceability were also part of the conversations throughout the conference. From the origins of raw materials to cultivation and processing, there was plenty to discuss about how the industry can build more transparent and responsible supply chains.
For patchouli, this starts well before the oil reaches the market. The condition of the land and the way the crop is cultivated both matter. Efforts such as developing new patchouli varieties and rehabilitating agricultural land are part of the work being done to support cultivation for the long term.
These themes carried through to the Closing Banquet, where industry contributions were recognised and the Sustainability Award winners were announced. The six finalists had shared projects addressing sustainability challenges across the industry, highlighting the different ways companies and communities are working towards meaningful change.
Continuing the Conversation
The week was filled with conversations, new perspectives, and opportunities to learn from others working across the essential oil industry.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to meet and exchange ideas with us in Bangkok. We return with a better understanding of the conversations shaping the industry and look forward to continuing them beyond the conference.
