Malaysian palm oil futures extended gains to around MYR 4,725 per tonne and were on track for a second consecutive weekly advance, supported by firmer edible oils on the Dalian markets and improving export prospects. Cargo surveyors estimated Malaysian palm oil shipments rose between 2.6% and 14.8% in the first 10 days of August, while demand expectations strengthened after India, the top buyer, imported edible oils at a 10-month high in July as refiners boosted purchases of palm oil and soyoil ahead of the festival season, according to the Solvent Extractors’ Association of India. Higher oil prices also lent support amid US threats to maintain a naval blockade of Iran. Gains were capped by a stronger ringgit, which can reduce the competitiveness of Malaysian exports, and by weaker soyoil on the Chicago exchange. Malaysia also lowered its September crude palm oil reference price, although the cut was still not enough to reduce the export duty below 10%.