ALOR GAJAH – The government’s move to allow the import of frozen whole chicken is expected to be able to help reduce the prices of the item in the market, said Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad.
He said the action is expected to result in an excess of supply in the local market, but at the same time, other factors also influence domestic prices, including the prices of the frozen chicken fixed by producing countries.
“Normally, the prices will drop slightly when there is more supply in the market, but we have to first see the effect importing frozen whole chicken will have on the market in this country.
“And if the prices (of frozen whole chicken) from source countries are far lower than the prices offered in the country, maybe the prices traders can offer could also be lower.
“But we have yet to obtain information on the matter because it is being handled by the Agriculture and Food Industries Ministry (Mafi),” he said after a visit to the Malaysian Family Sales Programme here today.
Hasnol was commenting on the announcement from Mafi on the government’s permission to import frozen whole chicken for a three-month period from this month until February next year.
He said the ministry is also reviewing the maximum price of standard chicken for retail sale (RM9.30/kg) and wholesale (RM8/kg), in the future if the prices of chicken in the country’s market return to normal.
“That, we will review just like the other items, too. For example, face masks, which, despite setting a RM0.70 ceiling price, now cost less following many offers including from abroad,” he said.
In another development, he said the Malaysian Family Sales Programme would be expanded and its organisation extended after next February if there is a high need or demand from the people. – Bernama, December 5, 2021
