KUCHING: The liberalisation policy on sugar supply in Sarawak will not have an immediate effect on the price of the commodity but will definitely benefit consumers in the long term, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Deputy Minister Chong Chieng Jen said on Dec 9.
He said the policy, however, breaks up the monopolies held by certain companies which dictated the supply and price of sugar in the state in the past, thus lowering the cost of business and reducing inflation in the long run.
“The main difference between the present government and the previous one is that the previous government creates monopolies, thereby increasing the cost of business which ultimately leads to price increases for goods,” he said.
His statement follows the revelation recently of 11 companies which have been given permits to import sugar to the state through the liberalisation of supply policy.
“The ministry will continue with its liberalisation of sugar policy and open to applications by F&B (food and beverages) manufacturers in Sarawak, (whether) big or small,” he added. – Bernama
