Iran has seen a significant increase in the import of agrofood products from Malaysia in 2022, with a surge of 88.7% compared to previous years, according to the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry.
Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, the minister, stated that the main products exported to Iran include meat products, poultry, and bird’s nest products.
The total export value has increased from RM66.5mil in 2021 to RM125.5mil last year.
In contrast, the import value from Iran to Malaysia has decreased by 44.1%, amounting to RM133.8mil compared to RM239.4mil in 2021, as declared by Mohamad in a written reply to Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang (PN-Marang) on Nov 1.
Abdul Hadi inquired about the bilateral cooperation between the two countries in the food security sector and the halal industry.
Mohamad also mentioned that both countries are actively working on strengthening ties through Joint Commission and Joint Economic Commission meetings.
He further stated, “The Investment, Trade, and Industry Ministry is currently coordinating cooperation in various aspects, including food security and the halal industry, through upcoming JEC meetings.”
Furthermore, to enhance collaboration in agriculture, particularly in research and development, a memorandum of understanding has been signed between the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (Mardi) and Iran’s Agricultural Research, Education, and Extension Organization (AREEO),” he added.
