PETALING JAYA: The government should consider reinstating Approved Permits (APs) for vegetable imports to prevent market imbalances and protect local farmers, it was pointed out.
Federation of Vegetable Farmers Associations president Lim Ser Kwee said continued inflow of imported produce, despite some being unnecessary, contributed to the drop in prices for locally-grown vegetables.
Citing cabbage as an example, he said imports made up 80% to 90% of supply.
“This discourages our farmers from expanding production, as continuous planting without stable prices is not sustainable.”
Lim cautioned that the absence of AP controls could further disrupt the domestic farming sector.
Tomato farmers, he said, have also faced prolonged low prices.
“From 2024 to 2025, prices remained weak. Many farmers stopped planting, and only recently has prices recovered slightly to around RM5 to RM6 per kg.”
Lim said there is a need for government support, such as subsidies, to help farmers.
Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin, when contacted, said imports remained strictly regulated despite the absence of APs, with compliance required under phytosanitary and food safety standards enforced by the relevant authorities.
He said any move to reintroduce APs would be based on data and industry engagement, with the ministry committed to balancing support for farmers and price stability for consumers.
Agricultural economics expert Prof Datuk Dr Nasir Shamsudin said a strict AP system may not be ideal, suggesting a more balanced approach such as seasonal import controls or data-driven quotas to stabilise the market while maintaining food security.
