Choosing wisely: A customer selecting bananas at Pasar Awam Taman Perling in Johor Baru.
JOHOR BARU: The recent implementation of the 5% Sales and Service Tax (SST) on most imported fruits is rekindling consumers’ affection for local varieties, celebrated for their stronger aromas and richer flavours.
They also express greater confidence in the safety of local papayas, bananas and starfruits, particularly when compared to produce from other countries that may be treated with unfamiliar chemicals.
Personal assistant R. Chitra, 46, loves local fruits, particularly papayas, bananas and starfruits.
“They are fresher, safer and more authentic compared to imported fruits, which I suspect may be treated with chemicals,” said the mum-of-three.
Sales executive Siti Farheen Sheikh Rafi, 30, has not been too affected by the tax, as she has always preferred local fruits.
“I don’t really eat imported fruits often, so I was not too affected.
“But for those who love them, this tax will definitely push them to switch to local fruits instead,” said the mother of one.
She now buys rambutan, mangosteens, bananas, papayas and mangoes more frequently.
“Local fruits tend to be sweeter, more aromatic and have stronger flavours. Imported fruits often lack that punch,” she said.
Another consumer, Pang, 62, said the rising prices have changed her shopping habits, though she still buys imported fruits occasionally when promotions are available.
“Yes, they are pricier now, but I don’t eat many fruits at once, so I can still afford them. I just buy what I like, whether local or imported.
“I prefer local durian, but imported mangoes are smoother in texture compared to local varieties.
“However, if prices continue to climb, I might eventually switch fully to local fruits,” she said.
Johor Fruit Farmers Association secretary-general Melvin Long supports the government’s decision to impose a 5% sales tax on imported fruits, excluding apples, oranges and dates, as it contributes to national revenue.
“Local farmers could benefit further if stricter controls are enforced on the quality and safety of imported fruits.
“Exporters must also be required to provide proof of Good Agricultural Practices, similar to the standards Malaysia adheres to when exporting abroad,” he said.
However, Long noted that the tax’s impact has been minimal, especially on premium-quality imports.
“Many consumers still prefer imported fruits because they are more stable in supply, relatively cheaper and have a longer shelf life compared to local ones.
“The labour, operations and packaging costs for local fruits, such as bananas, are higher, making them less competitive,” said Long, who is also the executive secretary of the Federation of Malaysia Fruit Farmers Association.
He explained that this situation is likely to persist unless exporting countries face unfavourable exchange rates, natural disasters or pest outbreaks.
He urged the government to assist farmers in reducing production costs and to implement more farmer-friendly policies that would enhance the competitiveness of local fruits.
