The Malaysian Insight

THE current arrangement to import eggs from India is a short-term solution, said suppliers as the first batch of eggs from the subcontinent hit Malaysian shelves last week.

Selangor Egg Wholesalers Association president Low Hin Ching said the problems will have to be addressed to find a long-term solution.

“Farms facing losses will continue to reduce production in an effort to keep their business profitable,” he said.

Low said  Malaysia cannot rely solely on Indian eggs.”

He said the situation will not improve unless the government allows market forces to determine prices.

The ceiling prices of eggs are 45 sen (grade A), 43 sen (grade B) and 41 sen (grade C).

This applies to eggs weighing between 59.9g and 65g. It does not cover “premium” eggs enriched with Omega-3 fatty acids, organic or kampung eggs.

Federation of Sundry Goods Merchants Associations of Malaysia president Hong Chee Meng said Putrajaya should engage with the industry.

“In the short term, I believe that imported eggs will have a moderate effect on the market. Now with Christmas and the Lunar New Year coming, consumers will be happy just to see shelves full.”

He said although imported eggs cost slightly more, people will not complain as long as there is supply.

Imported eggs are reported to have made their first appearance on the shelves of USJ Mydin in Subang, Selangor.

Mydin Mohamed Holdings Bhd managing director Ameer Ali Mydin said imported eggs had sold out quickly, in a report in The Star.

He said imported chicken eggs are categorised as grade D and weigh 55g each.

He said a tray of imported eggs is sold at RM14.90 for 30 eggs, or 50 sen each.

He said the government should find a long-term solution as consumers cannot afford to keep paying more for eggs.

On December 6, the government decided to egg imports as a short-term response to domestic supply needs.

Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu said the government will ensure that imported eggs received are disease-free and meet specified standards. All protocols and procedures set by the government must be followed without compromise.”

Malaysians consume more than 900 million eggs a month,” he said.

Mohamad said that measures would be reviewed when supply has stabilised. – December 24, 2022.