MD2 Pineapple Exports To New Zealand Set To Generate RM4.3 Million Annually

KUALA LUMPUR, June 24 (Bernama) -- Exports of Malaysia’s fresh MD2 pineapple variety to New Zealand are expected to generate about RM4.3 million annually, opening a new market for the country’s pineapple industry.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the achievement was the result of collaboration between the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry (KPKM), Rural and Regional Development Ministry (KKDW), industry players and other stakeholders, following MD2 pineapple cultivation on over 121.4 hectares in Lanchang, Pahang.

“The export market overseas is wide open as Malaysian pineapples are well known for their quality. The shipment to New Zealand is expected to generate RM4.3 million annually, and we hope to expand exports to other countries in future,” he told reporters after the MD2 pineapple export launch ceremony to New Zealand today, which was also attended by KPKM secretary-general Datuk Seri Isham Ishak.

Mohamad said New Zealand is a new market for Malaysian pineapples, which have mainly been exported to Asian countries, while also opening access to the Pacific region, including Australia.

He said agricultural exports should be further strengthened to narrow the country’s food trade gap.

“We import too much, more than RM80 billion. It is now above RM40 billion and continues to increase over time,” he said.

He added that pineapple exports to New Zealand also benefit from the Malaysia–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (MNZFTA), including tariff exemptions that enhance the competitiveness of local products.

On July 18, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said New Zealand had requested Malaysia to increase pineapple exports due to strong demand for the fruit.

On the situation in the Strait of Hormuz following the conflict in the Middle East, Mohamad said the country’s food supply remains stable and is expected to be sufficient at least until December.

“Food supply is stable, God willing. We will make an early announcement to the public if there are any sudden changes,” he said.

Meanwhile, Malaysian Pineapple Exporters Association (MAPEA) representative Wesley Tan Seah Ging said the inaugural shipment involves 22.5 tonnes of MD2 pineapples, or 1,500 boxes, which will depart tomorrow and is expected to arrive at the Port of Auckland on July 13 before being distributed locally.

Wesley, who is also managing director of Aqina Fruits Sdn Bhd, said the export is the result of a joint producer development programme with FELDA at the Permanent Food Production Park in Lanchang, demonstrating the capability of local producers to supply high-quality fruit for export markets.

-- BERNAMA