Chan says vegetable price slumps are 'normal'

 By Olivia Miwil

April 5, 2026 @ 1:33pm

Deputy minister Chan Foong Hin says post-Hari Raya demand drop and global factors are behind recent vegetable price fluctuations, as Putrajaya moves to stabilise supply. – NSTP/Mohd Adam Arinin

KOTA KINABALU: Vegetable price fluctuations are largely driven by supply and demand dynamics, Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin said, noting that prices often ease after festive periods such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

He said it was normal for demand to taper off after the celebrations, leading to price adjustments in the market.

"There are reports of prices rising, while in places like Pahang, there are claims of prices being too low, with produce being discarded.

"This is due to supply and demand. After Hari Raya, demand for vegetables usually declines as the festive peak has passed. It is a dynamic situation," he said during an Agro Madani sales programme at Lintasan Deasoka here.

On concerns over fertiliser export restrictions by other countries, Chan said domestic supply remains stable despite global uncertainties.

"Manufacturers have stockpiles for about six months, so there is no immediate disruption in supply," he said.

However, he added that Malaysia is diversifying its fertiliser import sources to mitigate risks from global supply chain disruptions.

"We are engaging with other countries, including Russia, to secure raw materials and ensure continued supply," he said, noting that while nitrogen (N) is produced locally, sourcing phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) remains a challenge.

Chan said the Agro Madani initiative continues to benefit consumers by offering produce at lower prices.

"Prices are about 10 to 30 per cent lower compared to the usual market, depending on the product," he said.

The programme also provides a direct platform for agro-entrepreneurs to sell their produce while reducing costs, he added.

The ministry is targeting 5,000 Agro Madani sales nationwide this year as part of efforts to ease the cost of living.

Chan acknowledged ongoing challenges in the agriculture sector, including rising transportation costs linked to the global energy situation and the prolonged El Niño phenomenon affecting crop yields.

Nevertheless, he said the government is taking steps to minimise the impact, including developing more resilient crop varieties through agencies such as the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI).

"There will be some impact, but we are taking steps to manage it with minimal risk," he said.