Shortage of egg supply to be resolved after Chinese New Year holidays

KUALA LUMPUR: The shortage of egg supply will be resolved once poultry farms and logistics companies responsible for the delivery of eggs to retailers resume operations after the Chinese New Year holidays.

Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry (KPDNHEP) enforcement director Azman Adam said the availability of chicken eggs in the domestic market stood at 91 per cent, as of Feb 3.

"This percentage indicates that the supply of eggs in the country is stable and sufficient to cater to the current demand from consumers.

"However, a sudden spike in demand and purchase of eggs before, during and after the Chinese New Year holidays has led to the ongoing disruption of egg supply.

"Besides, some poultry farms and logistics companies (responsible for delivering the items) are not operating during the Chinese New Year holidays. Some have even suspended operations for more than two days.

"These factors have contributed to the delay in delivering the eggs from the farms to wholesalers and retailers in some areas, such as in Terengganu, Negri Sembilan, Perlis and Sarawak," he said in a statement today.

However, he said, the supply of eggs would return stable and be available in all localities nationwide once poultry farms and logistics companies resume operations.

Azman said the ministry had instructed all retailers to renew their existing stock of eggs and to contact the manufacturers or wholesalers if their current stocks fall below the reorder limit.

The ministry, he added, had instructed retailers to make limited purchases, if necessary, so that more consumers have access to the item.

Azman also advised the public to refrain from panic buying as the current supply shortage would stabilise after the festive period.

Earlier today, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi described the shortage of egg supply as "isolated cases" that were confined to certain areas.

Starting tomorrow, chicken and eggs (Grades A, B and C) will be placed under the Maximum Price Control Scheme until June 5.

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