January 26, 2010

Centralised farming can help control Malaysian pork prices

The Malaysian government should have a clearer policy to support local pig farmers and this includes the implementation of a centralised pig farm.

According to reports, the centralised farming system would not only be able to control pollution but would also control the production of pigs. In addition, it would ensure ample pork supply in the country all year round and solve the problem of a price increase for the meat.

Reports also stated that the government's move to list pork as a controlled item during the festive season would stabilise the price for pork.

However, although importing pork might allow pork sellers to earn more profit and help restaurant operators save cost, it would bring negative effects to the pig farming industry.

Meanwhile, Veterinary Services Department director-general Datuk Dr Abdul Aziz Jamaluddin said prices would not escalate as there would be ample supply during the period and several measures have been put in place, including permission for farmers to sell directly to consumers.

"As a stopgap measure, we will also allow importers to bring in pork in the form of chilled carcasses and cuts to ensure ample supply. We will also allow suckling piglets be imported due to limited supply in the local market," said Aziz.

The temporary import of carcasses and cuts, he said, would be allowed till February 28 and was an addition to the 10 pork-based products allowed by the department earlier.

According to reports, it is estimated that about 7,000 live pigs will be needed daily in the weeks before and after Chinese New Year.

"At the same time, the Domestic Trade, Co-operatives and Consumerism Ministry is planning to control the prices of lean pork, lean and fat meat and pork belly. The prices will be announced by the ministry soon," he said.