KOTA KINABALU – Pork prices in Sabah have decreased by 15% following the recovery from the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak.
Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Chan Foong Hin said in a statement that the matter was announced by the Sabah Livestock Association recently, and he welcomes local farmers’ decision to reduce the prices of livestock.
“For instance, the cost of live pigs on Sabah’s west coast has decreased from RM21 to RM18 per kg, while in the east coast towns of Sandakan and Tawau, the prices have adjusted from RM21.50 to RM18.50 per kg.”
“It is anticipated that these reductions will remain in effect as long as our farmers continue to enhance their productivity levels.
“I am optimistic that this initiative will have a positive impact on local consumers, allowing them to access fresh pork at more affordable rates.”
Chan said the 200-acre large-scale modern pig farming project in Tongod’s Pig Farming Area is also in the pipeline, adding that the project would significantly boost production and contribute to further reductions in pork prices.
Meanwhile, he acknowledged the diligence of Sabah farmers who followed the guidelines and regulations set by the Sabah Department of Veterinary Services to combat the ASF outbreak over the past 18 months.
He said prior to the ASF outbreak in 2021, Sabah had achieved self-sufficiency in pork production, meeting the local market demand of approximately 10,000 live pigs per month.
“Sabah had once enjoyed stable market conditions for pork, and I am confident that, with concerted efforts, we can restore such stability in the near future.” – August 22, 2023