December 20, 2022

 

Malaysian government agrees to temporarily permit chicken egg imports

Malaysia's Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) said it will allow the temporary import of chicken eggs, following a domestic shortage in the country, Bernama reported.

 

MAFS said they will review the decision when local supply stabilises, adding that the move was taken as Malaysia is experiencing an egg shortage for the past few months.

 

In a trial phase, eggs will be imported from India by air. This is to ensure imported eggs meet current standards.

 

Tests on the imported eggs revealed that they are safe, free of illnesses, and comply with the Malaysian market's stipulated standards

 

A statement from the MAFS said the tests undertaken are to ensure that the public will obtain imported chicken eggs which are safe, hygienic, halal and free from all infections while also maintaining the country's livestock business.

 

The ministry implemented controls on imported chicken eggs at entry points via the Hold, Test, and Release (HTR) inspection through the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (MAQIS) and the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS).

 

This includes the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for detecting salmonella bacteria, Newcastle disease virus, and avian influenza.

 

MAFS said the initiative to bring in chicken eggs from outside sources is not intended to put pressure on local industry operators, but to ensure adequate supply in the country at competitive prices.

 

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that the government is considering intervening at the consumer level to address the country's supply shortage of goods, and he emphasised the government's interest in supporting the livestock sector.

 

-        Bernama