KUALA LUMPUR – Covid-19 self-test kits are about to get more affordable, with the government today announcing its decision to cap prices beginning Sunday.
A Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry statement said antigen rapid test kits will have a ceiling retail price of RM19.90, while the wholesale price is capped at RM16.
The decision is in line with the Price Control Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 and Control of Supplies Act 1961, it said.
The new prices are considerably lower than the current retail price range of between RM28 and RM41.
The statement, jointly signed by Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin and Domestic Trade Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, said the maximum prices were fixed to ensure the public is able to afford the kits.
This was done following price monitoring at pharmacies and other premises selling these tests, discussions with stakeholders, and obtaining feedback from the Medical Device Authority, Health Ministry and Customs Department.
“Stern action will be taken against those who fail to abide by these prices. Any trader who commits this offence faces action under the Price Control Anti-Profiteering Act,” said the statement.
Individual offenders face a maximum fine of RM100,000, a compound of RM50,000, or three years’ imprisonment. Companies can be fined up to RM500,000 or be issued a maximum compound of RM250,000.
In the statement, Khairy and Nanta said they expect to see a spike in demand for self-test kits in view of the still-raging pandemic.
The latter minister noted that competition between various manufacturers may lead to better prices at all levels, similar to what happened with masks.
Those with information on kits being sold above the ceiling price are urged to lodge a report, added the statement. – The Vibes, September 2, 2021
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