PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
BERNAS Announces Adjustment In Imported White Rice Prices
1 September, SHAH ALAM - Padiberas Nasional Berhad (BERNAS) is announcing an adjustment in the prices of all imported white rice effective immediately, which will see the price per metric ton (MT) raised to RM3,200 from the current RM2,350.
BERNAS has endured a very challenging first half of the year as a reflection of the uncertainties contributed by multiple external factors such as climate change, weakening foreign exchange rates, high operational costs and regional conflicts. These factors have collectively triggered a significant impact on the global rice trading market, and it was further compounded by the effect of India’s recent announcement of the ban on the exportation of white rice.
BERNAS has been absorbing the impact of the increase in imported rice prices over the last few years. However, considering the current condition where the uncertainty remains elevated and weighing on the need to ensure sustainable business operations for all of the industry players, the price adjustment is inevitable and critical at this point in time.
BERNAS is also working closely with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) and other relevant agencies and authorities, as well as its international trading partners, to guarantee a stable rice supply to Malaysia as the Nation’s food security and the people's interests remain our top priority.
Although the global food market presents many challenges and uncertainties, BERNAS has remained adaptable and determined over the years. We have taken intentional measures to enhance and secure the resilience of the domestic rice market by ensuring product availability, price stability, and quality. This signifies our
crucial role as the national gatekeeper.
BERNAS is committed to ensuring a consistent supply of rice in the country, acting as a "shock absorber" to prevent the negative effects of global rice market fluctuations from affecting the nation. BERNAS will closely monitor international market prices and adjust prices accordingly once the situation has normalized. Currently, the price of imported rice in Malaysia remains one of the lowest in Southeast Asia.
About BERNAS
BERNAS was established in 1994 when it took over the role of Lembaga Padi dan Beras Negara (LPN) as the custodian of Malaysian paddy and rice after LPN was corporatized. For more than three decades, BERNAS has been a key player in Malaysia's paddy and rice industry and is recognized as a reliable partner for food security and sustainability.
Our longstanding slogan, "Nourishing the Nation," reflects our values and commitment to providing the best products and services to our country. We embrace our shared core values of Integrity, Customer Focus, and Teamwork, and strive to fulfil our obligations with full dedication, while also balancing the requirements of all stakeholders and upholding the highest standards of quality across our supply
chain.