PETALING JAYA: Despite India’s indefinite export ban on onions, Malaysians will have no trouble finding ample supply of this essential ingredient as onions of Chinese and Pakistani varieties will be available, says Bumiputra Retailers Association president Datuk Ameer Ali Mydin.
He said prices for onions from these countries could be between RM6.99 and RM8.99, highlighting that this is the current market price for the vegetable.
“There is no shortage. Onions are still being imported from Pakistan and China.
“Prices may also remain the same as retailers have already brought in goods for the coming Hari Raya,” he said when contacted.
Ameer Ali, who is the Mydin hypermarket chain managing director, pointed out that the price of onions from India, China and Pakistan ranged between RM1.89 and RM2.49 per kg during Hari Raya celebrations last year.
This means that the prices have almost tripled compared with last year.
He also pointed out that the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (Mardi) was undertaking efforts to grow onions.
“In the meantime, Malaysia could place more focus on producing other goods that can be exported at competitive prices so the country can increase revenue and import needed items,” he added.
Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations chief executive officer Saravanan Thambirajah said onions should be part of the festive price control scheme during festive seasons.
He added that the price controls for onions should be implemented during celebrations, pointing out that the prices should be allowed to float once it ended.
“The most important aspect is availability. Leave the prices to the market, as we are fully dependent on imports.
“The authorities must also go to the ground to check onion availability to ensure that there are no shortages,” he said.
Consumers Association of Penang president Mohideen Abdul Kadeer concurred, saying price controls could be implemented for onions for the coming Hari Raya period, adding that it would ease the burden on consumers.
“It will be like a Raya gift to those who cook at home.
“Onions are a staple used both at home and in restaurants; what more during the Hari Raya season?” he said.
