Agricultural cartels must end, says PM

PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has emphasised that cartel practices within the country’s agricultural sector must be halted immediately, according to a report by Bernama.

Anwar said the outdated system of importing seeds through cartels and monopolies must be stopped, and future decisions should be driven by data, with a focus on the welfare of farmers, fishermen, and smallholders.

“To ensure productivity, the entire ecosystem must be restructured, particularly with the involvement of the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry and other relevant ministries. Cartels and monopolies can no longer dominate the supply of seeds and fertilisers as they did in the past.

“That’s why it’s crucial to have a minister and a secretary-general who are resolute in eliminating these old cartel practices in fertiliser imports,” he said during his speech at the opening of the Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism Exhibition 2024 at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park in Serdang.

Anwar, who also serves as finance minister, highlighted that the food sector is a vital pillar for the country’s development.

He stressed the need to create a holistic and sustainable ecosystem rather than relying solely on the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority.

The prime minister also expressed hope that government subsidies for farmers, fishermen, and smallholders would offer significant benefits. – September 14, 2024.