AP for imported rice, import permit for other food items needed, says ministry

SHAH ALAM - Only four types of agro-food commodities are no longer subjected to approved permits (AP), they are cabbage, old coconut seeds, whole chicken or cut pieces and condensed milk.

Agriculture and Food Industry ministry (Mafi) in a statement said the suppliers still need AP to import rice.

“Although AP is no longer required to bring in agro-food commodities, importers still need Import Permit (IP) for biosecurity control at the country's entry gate.

"This is to ensure that biosecurity controls and imported products are free from diseases and pests and in ensuring the goods are from government-recognised plants," the statement.

The decision to abolish food AP was decided by the Cabinet and announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob on Wednesday.

Ismail Sabri announced APs are no longer required with immediate effect as a measure to ensure food security and adequate supply.

Meanwhile, the agricultural ministry said companies are now allowed to import all types of agro-food but are subjected to IPs issued by the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (Maqis).

"This includes the written conditions in the permit in accordance with Subsection 11 (1) of the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Act 2011 (Act 728) and also other acts and regulations in force," the statement said.

According to the statement, the ministry will continue to play an important role in ensuring the viability of the agro-food sector at every level of the food chain.

“It is also for the people to continue to get adequate, safe to eat and nutritiounal food supplies. At the same time, the welfare of local food producers will also continue to be preserved,” it explained.