Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says removing Kenyan beef import tariffs aims to reduce high meat costs for Malaysian consumers while balancing local farmer protection.
NAIROBI: Malaysia’s decision to remove tariffs on beef imports from Kenya aims to reduce costs for consumers facing high meat prices, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
“The more important issue is not about removing or keeping the tariff but how do you get the prices low?” he stated during his exit press conference concluding a three-country African tour.
Anwar noted that beef prices in Malaysia remain unreasonably high despite existing imports from several nations.
He emphasised the need to balance protecting local farmers with ensuring affordable food prices for consumers.
“As the cost of meat in Malaysia is high, our tendency is to expand and facilitate imports so that the cost to the people is lower,” the Prime Minister explained.
Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, described the tariff removal’s fiscal impact as “very minor, very small, very insignificant.”
The announcement came during a joint press conference with Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto on Monday.
Both leaders agreed to upgrade bilateral relations to a strategic partnership alongside the tariff elimination for Kenya’s agricultural produce and beef.
Anwar stressed that Malaysia should not restrict imports to only a few countries while making exports difficult for economically disadvantaged nations.
“As long as procedures and parameters are met, there is absolutely no reason to discriminate against poorer countries,” he said.
He directed agencies including the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia and the Agriculture Ministry to ensure fair market access for all compliant exporters.
While Kenya seeks to increase exports to Malaysia, the country also plans to boost imports of Malaysian products.
Anwar highlighted Kenya’s RM1 billion palm oil purchases from Malaysia, which it distributes to other continents.
“Similar arrangements can be looked at for our Proton cars,” he suggested.
President Ruto expressed interest in semiconductor development, energy transition, and digital industry cooperation.
Anwar urged relevant ministries and agencies to aggressively pursue these opportunities for Malaysian benefit.
“The Foreign Ministry and also MITI have to take it up aggressively,” he stated.
“Our challenge has always been to execute this decision.”
He warned it would be a major loss if Malaysia fails to fully leverage Africa’s friendly and supportive spirit.
Regarding memoranda of understanding with Ethiopia and Kenya, Anwar said they will be presented at Friday’s Cabinet meeting for follow-up action due to their significant potential.
