Johor aims to remain major producer of agricultural products until 2027

SEGAMAT – Johor aims to remain the main producer of agricultural products in the country in the next five years until 2027, having recorded a total production of 736,178 tonnes last year.

State Agriculture, Agro-based Industry and Rural Development Committee chairman Datuk Zahari Sarip said last year, agricultural production recorded for fruits was 569,004 tonnes, while for vegetables it was 167,174 tonnes.

According to him, the target of improvement in the five-year period is 34% for fruits and 32% for vegetables.

“Among the main agricultural products of Johor are pineapple, durian, banana, papaya and watermelon. As for vegetables, they are chilli, okra and ginger.

“These agricultural products are not only for the local market but will also be exported abroad, where an increase is expected after the opening of new agricultural areas in the state,” he told reporters after officiating the Johor Agro Carnival at Dataran Bandar Segamat here today.

Also present was Johor Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority assistant director of operations, Azizi Azimi Mat Nayan.

When commenting on the export of Johor’s agricultural products, he said pineapples are now in high demand from countries in Europe with MD2 pineapples being the main choice.

“Exports of the fruit are increasing and every week we receive orders for around 1,000 containers that will be placed in distribution hubs in Germany for the European market.

“Apart from Europe, pineapple is also in high demand in Middle Eastern countries such as Turkey and some other Arab countries,” he said.

He also advised those involved in agriculture to use the latest technology to address the shortage of manpower. – Bernama, July 2, 2022