Agriculture Ministry moves to strengthen Malaysia’s seed industry

Malaysia is moving to build a stronger domestic seed industry after imports supplied nearly 90% of the country’s vegetable seed needs.

Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu said the dependence on foreign seed sources could expose the crop sector to supply-chain disruptions, geopolitical changes and higher agricultural input costs. The value of vegetable seed imports rose from about US$5 million in 2021, equivalent to roughly RM20.19 million, to US$70 million, or RM282.65 million, last year.

Speaking after the launch of a national crop seed industry empowerment programme at Malaysia’s Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism Show, MAHA 2026, in Serdang, Mohamad said the government was taking a broad approach to close the gap. The aim is to help local producers develop seeds that are competitive, innovative and suited to national needs.

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This situation could expose the crop sector to the risk of supply-chain disruptions, geopolitical changes and rising agricultural input costs.

A central part of the plan is a stronger legal framework. The ministry is in the final stage of drafting the Crop Seed Quality Bill and is also amending the Protection of New Plant Varieties Act 2004 so that it aligns with international standards.

The government also plans to strengthen the role of the National Seed Council and expand regional cooperation through the ASEAN Seed Council and industry groups such as the National Seed Association of Malaysia. The ministry says these measures should help local industry standards compete globally while reducing exposure to imported supplies.

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One of the main pillars of this effort is strengthening the legal framework.