In Seremban, the price of imported white rice at various outlets remains consistent for now, but sellers are optimistic that prices will decrease once new stock arrives.
During checks at multiple wholesalers and stores, 10kg bags of imported white rice were still priced between RM35.90 and RM45.90, depending on the brand and quality.
Despite the steady prices, business owners were informed by millers that prices are set to decrease soon.
An employee at a prominent mill stated that the government had instructed millers to lower prices starting from March 20.
“The directive was for the millers to reduce prices,” she explained. “However, outlets may take some time to adjust as the earliest they can receive new supplies is three days after the directive.”
The employee shared that at their mill, prices of the 10kg bag have already been reduced by RM2, with the 5kg bag set to be RM1 cheaper regardless of brand.
A leading rice wholesaler mentioned that they have been notified by millers about the impending price reduction, but they are yet to receive the updated rates.
“Currently, we are still selling at the old prices, but we anticipate a price drop in the near future,” the wholesaler stated.
Meanwhile, a store manager along Jalan Yam Tuan reported receiving a notice from a wholesaler confirming that the price of 5kg and 10kg imported white rice bags would be lowered.
Another store manager added that they were awaiting a formal price reduction notice from suppliers before adjusting the prices of their imported white rice.
According to the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry, imported white rice is currently priced between RM38 and RM45 per 10kg pack, but is expected to drop to RM35.
Shopper B. Amarjeet Kaur, 63, expressed gratitude for the reduced price of imported white rice, while also urging authorities to monitor and control prices of other essential food items like flour.
Another shopper, Jamilah, welcomed the price reduction but suggested extending the same reduction to local white rice by enhancing production on idle and government-owned land.
This shopper emphasized the importance of lowering rice prices, as rice is a staple food in the nation.
