Malaysia targets RM1 billion in durian exports to cut food import reliance

The Malaysian government is focusing on expanding exports of high-value commodities like pineapples and durians to strengthen the agrifood sector and reduce reliance on food imports. Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu highlighted recent progress, noting that durian exports are expected to generate over RM1 billion in additional value through a new memorandum of understanding (MOU). Pineapple exports have also tripled in the past three years, contributing to narrowing the country’s food trade gap.

Mohamad emphasized efforts to address price competition, particularly for locally grown vegetables facing challenges from imported produce. The Cost of Assurance (COA) mechanism is being used to regulate imports of certain vegetables, especially from China, to support local producers.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) is collaborating with state governments to secure land for agrifood activities, including livestock farming, vegetable cultivation, and grain corn production. Mohamad stated that most state governments have been cooperative in providing suitable land for these initiatives.