KUCHING, Oct 20 (Bernama) -- As of September 2026, Sarawak had 39,122 pepper smallholders cultivating 8,168 hectares.
Sarawak Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said Sarawak pepper continued to command premium prices on the international market.
“The average Free on Board (FOB) price of Malaysian black pepper (ASTA) stood at approximately RM37,649 per metric tonne, remaining relatively stable compared with the corresponding period in 2025.
“Meanwhile, the average FOB price of Malaysian white pepper (FAQ) increased by approximately 2.6 per cent, from RM48,373 to RM49,642 per metric tonne,” he said when winding up the debate for his ministry at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly sitting here today.
Rundi said these figures reflect the continued value of local pepper in the premium market segment.
“Nevertheless, the relatively higher export prices compared with competing producing countries present an ongoing challenge to price competitiveness.
“Therefore, efforts must continue to focus on improving product quality, strengthening traceability, expanding market access and developing higher-value downstream products to enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of Sarawak's pepper industry, while safeguarding the interests and livelihoods of our pepper smallholders,” he added.
-- BERNAMA
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