FELDA Calls On Gov't To Consider Abolishing Refined Sugar AP And IP

BUTTERWORTH,  Sept 17 (Bernama) -- The Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA) has called on the government to consider abolishing the Approved Permit (AP) and Import Permit (IP) for refined sugar following a recent influx of the commodity. 

FELDA chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek stated that Malaysia has a surplus of domestically produced sugar and does not require imports, which are sold at the same price as local sugar despite their significantly higher production costs.

He said that MSM Malaysia Holdings Berhad, a part of the FGV Group and the nation's largest sugar producer, hopes the government will revoke these permits, as allowing these imports places significant pressure on local manufacturers.

"In countries like Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia, sugar prices are much higher, ranging from RM5 to RM8 per kilogramme. Yet, their sugar can be sold here in Malaysia for RM2.85, the same as our locally controlled price.

“This indicates a clear element of dumping, which must be stopped," he told reporters after a visit to MSM Malaysia and launching the 'Gula Perai Edisi Khas FELDA' (FELDA Special Edition Prai Sugar) in honour of FELDA settlers.

Ahmad Shabery highlighted that approximately 60,000 to 70,000 metric tonnes of refined sugar are imported annually for sale on the local retail market.

He explained that if this situation persists, it will not only impact local refinery operations but could also lead to job losses and significant long-term economic damage. 

"In my view, since we are already producing sugar in excess of our requirements, there is no necessity to grant any import permits to parties seeking to bring in refined sugar for sale here," he said.

He added that FELDA has formally raised the matter with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living for further action.

-- BERNAMA