KUALA LUMPUR: No elements of anti-competitive practices were found in the study on the rice and padi industry, says the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry.
Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said the study, carried out by the Malaysia Competition Commission (MyCC), found no infringements under the Competition Act 2010.
“We now leave it to the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry to continue spearheading reforms for the padi and rice industry.
“We appreciate the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry’s commitment to consider proposals made in MyCC’s report,” he said during his winding-up speech in the Dewan Rakyat on Monday (Feb 24).
He explained that the study also did not amount to an investigation under the Competition Act; it aimed to understand the market structure, behaviour, and challenges.
He said the study covered stakeholders at all levels, including farmers, millers, suppliers, fertiliser suppliers, service providers and relevant government agencies.
It lasted from February to October 2024, and the findings were presented to the Cabinet Committee on National Food Security in December.
“It covered all aspects, even areas where certain quarters felt there were anti-competitive practices.
“In the reports, no elements on this were found,” Armizan reiterated.
He also said the ministry is ready to schedule a special briefing for MPs who want to learn more about the findings in MyCC’s report.
On allegations of local white rice stocks being hidden or local white rice being packaged as imported white rice, Armizan said the matter would fall under the jurisdiction of the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry.
Separately, Armizan urged MPs to support the Mergers and Acquisitions Bill, adding that a briefing is scheduled to take place before the end of the current Dewan Rakyat sitting.
