ASEAN Nations To Prioritise Members’ Rice Needs

Southeast Asian countries have agreed to prioritise helping each other overcome rice supply shortages and other food-related problems, Malaysia’s agricultural minister said.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, ASEAN reached the agreement at a meeting in Kuala Lumpur this week, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu said.

“ASEAN collaboration means if we face rice issues, ASEAN member countries will give priority to ASEAN nations first,” he said.

Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand said they would consider any new requests for additional imports, Mohamad said.

Malaysia, which imports about 38% of its rice needs, is among several countries affected by top exporters like India restricting shipments. The government on Monday announced subsidies and other measures to offset rising prices of grain and ensure sufficient supply in the market.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim warned of legal action against anyone found hoarding rice, to prevent consumers from stockpiling local grains.

REUTERS/Christopher Ojilere