BUTTERWORTH, Sept 17 — The Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) has called on the government to consider abolishing approved permits and import permits for refined sugar following a recent influx of the commodity.
Felda chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek said Malaysia has a surplus of locally produced sugar and does not need imports, which are sold at the same price as local sugar despite their significantly higher production costs.
He said that MSM Malaysia Holdings Bhd, a part of the FGV Group and the nation’s largest sugar producer, hopes the government will revoke these permits, as allowing these imports places significant pressure on local manufacturers.
“In countries like Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia, sugar prices are much higher, ranging from RM5 to RM8 per kg. Yet, their sugar can be sold here in Malaysia for RM2.85, the same as our locally controlled price.
“This indicates a clear element of dumping, which must be stopped,” he told reporters after a visit to MSM Malaysia.
Shabery highlighted that approximately 60,000 to 70,000 metric tonnes of refined sugar are imported annually for sale on the local market, and explained that if this persists, it will not only impact local refinery operations, but could lead to job losses and significant long-term economic damage.
“In my view, since we are already producing sugar in excess of our requirements, there is no need to grant import permits to parties seeking to bring in refined sugar for sale here,” he said.
Shabery added that Felda has formally raised the matter with the Finance Ministry and Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry for further action.
