Malaysia’s Ministry of Rural and Regional Development aims to reduce the country’s food imports by 50% by 2050 to address its RM80 billion annual food import bill. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced the target at the Risda Agro Majestic programme in Bandar Tenggara on July 4, 2026 [1, 2].
The plan sets phased reduction goals of at least 15% by 2030, more than 30% by 2040, before reaching 50% by 2050 [1, 2]. Zahid noted, “Currently, we import food worth about RM80 billion a year. Through this integrated effort, we can reduce food imports through the agencies under the ministry.” [1] He added, “We are targeting a reduction in food imports of at least 15% by 2030, followed by more than 30% by 2040, before achieving our target of a 50% reduction by 2050.” [2]
The initiative involves optimising idle and underutilised government-owned land for Agro Madani projects and livestock farming [1, 3, 2]. The ministry works with agencies including Risda, Felcra, the Department of Veterinary Services, and state agricultural bodies to boost domestic food production and security [1, 3, 2]. Launched nationwide around 2023, the initiative has helped stabilise market prices of broiler chicken and layer farming [1, 2].
Zahid emphasized that the ministry's role is not to compete with commercial livestock farmers but to ensure adequate supply and affordable prices. He said, “This is an effort to ensure adequate supply. When the supply of chicken and eggs is sufficient, consumers will be able to purchase them at reasonable prices.” [2]
The government will continue collaborating with all relevant agencies to meet the phased reduction targets and reduce reliance on food imports while stabilising prices for consumers [1, 2].
