December 24, 2022

 

Malaysian traders say increasing egg output better solution to overcome shortage

Malaysian traders have urged the government to remove price controls on chicken eggs in order to boost production, as it is a better solution than importing eggs to overcome the current shortage, The Star reported.

 

Malaysia began importing chicken eggs from India, with the first batch arriving on December 19.

 

Datuk Ameer Ali Mydin, managing director for Malaysian supermarket chain Mydin, said the imported eggs at his outlets were quickly sold out.

 

He said the imported eggs were categorised as Grade D, with a tray sold at MYR 14.90 (~US$3.37; MYR 1 = US$0.23) for 30 eggs or MYR 0.50 (~US$0.11) each. The price is higher compared to domestic Grade A eggs at MYR 0.45 (~US$0.10) each, Grade B at MYR 0.43 (~US$0.097) each, and Grade C at MYR 0.41 (~US$0.093) each.

 

Ameer said that consumers had previously turned to more expensive Omega eggs when regular eggs were scarce, but that they now have a choice with imported eggs.

 

He said that since consumers cannot continue to pay higher prices, the government should negotiate with regional egg breeders as a long-term solution.

 

The government will import between two million and ten million eggs daily from India until the supply in the nation stabilises, according to Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

 

Senior adviser Datuk Lim Choon Se of supermarket chain NSK Group stated that the company has no intention of selling imported chicken eggs.

 

He said they will restrict consumers' egg purchases so there will be enough for everyone.

 

Hong Chee Meng, President of the Federation of Sundry Goods Merchants Associations of Malaysia, expressed concern regarding imported eggs and the proper handling and preparation needed to stop the potential spread of salmonella.

 

-      The Star