PLS Plantations Bhd has forged a partnership with China-based Guangzhou Jiangnan Agriculture Development Co. Ltd to construct regional wholesale markets in Johor, aimed at facilitating the processing and marketing of Malaysian agricultural produce.
The collaboration marks a significant stride towards enhancing Malaysia’s food security program.
The memorandum of business exploration was formalized today in Guangzhou, China, during an official visit by a Johor delegation led by Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi. PLS Special Projects Director Lim Fang Ching and Guangzhou Jiangnan Director Ken Chooi inked the agreement at the latter’s company headquarters, with PLS executive vice chairman Tan Sri Lim Kang Hoo also in attendance.
The wholesale markets, slated to be situated in Pasir Gudang, Johor, will function as a comprehensive hub offering support services, market access, and logistical assistance to farmers and food producers.
Guangzhou Jiangnan, recognised as one of the largest fruit and vegetable wholesale markets in China and Southeast Asia, boasts an impressive annual sales transaction volume of RM30 billion.
Lim emphasised that the proposed one-stop offtake center in Pasir Gudang aims to optimise the supply chain, ensuring convenience and efficiency for both producers and consumers.
The facility will cater to various sectors including agriculture, aquaculture, and meat production, catering to local consumption and export markets.
The partnership also entails investments in farming and plantations, along with the establishment of processing and distribution facilities for quality products, with a focus on durian upstream and downstream products.
Both parties are committed to sourcing agricultural products, ensuring fair pricing, and facilitating market access for producers.
“This collaboration will significantly elevate the procurement of high-quality products, adherence to regulatory standards, and the establishment of reliable supply chains to meet consumer demand,” Lim said.
