The Malaysian Government has extended a nation-wide lockdown until 28 June. The lockdown, which places restrictions on economic activity and limits the movement of people, came into force on 1 June and was initially scheduled to end on June 14.
Under the extended lockdown, only economic sectors considered essential will continue to operate. All agriculture and related supply chains, such as ports and manufacturers of agricultural inputs, are expected to remain open.
Import clearance functions by border officials will continue during this lockdown. Border officials in Malaysia have increased their scrutiny of documentation and compliance with import requirements.
What exporters should do?
To minimise the risk of delays, agriculture and food exporters are encouraged to ensure their products continue to meet importing country requirements by referring to the Manual of Importing Country Requirements website.
It is recommended industry contact the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur about any issues related to the supply of critical agriculture inputs.
For further information and assistance, contact Sanjay Boothalingam, Counsellor (Agriculture) Kuala Lumpur.
The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
The Australia-Malaysia bilateral relationship has been elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP). The CSP emphasises the importance of free trade and investment, as well as open economies and business-friendly policies. The CSP affirms our national intentions to further strengthen the Australia-Malaysia partnership on agricultural trade.
Background
Malaysia is an important source of inputs for the Australian agriculture and food processing sectors. Australia is a key supplier of a range of agriculture produce to Malaysia including wheat, sheep-meat, beef, veal and cheese. Australia and Malaysia are working together to minimise disruptions to supply-chains caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.