December 22, 2010

Malaysia to resume imports of New Zealand beef

Malaysia will resume the imports of beef from New Zealand next month, Islamic Development Department Deputy Director-General (Policy), Othman Mustapha, said on Tuesday (Dec 22).

He said imports were stopped three years ago after 16 farms in New Zealand that supplied beef to Malaysia were found not in compliance with halal standards.

"We are strict in this matter," he said after opening a halal forum at the Melaka International Trade Centre in Ayer Keroh.

He said the ban on New Zealand beef imports was lifted following the implementation of the Malaysia Meat and Meat Products Halal Requirements (Overseas Market Access Notification) Notice 2010 standard starting next month.

"The standard was the result of a memorandum of agreement signed between the Malaysian and New Zealand governments on December 13. The standard ensures farms in New Zealand comply with our halal standard," he said.