Govt tightens import controls to protect consumers and ensure fair competition

The Malaysian government is taking steps to tighten import controls in order to safeguard consumers and ensure fair competition within the country's market, according to Deputy Finance Minister Liew Chin Tong. The measures aim to prevent the entry of construction materials that do not meet safety standards and protect local businesses from unfair competition.

Liew emphasized during a July 27 engagement session with the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) and the Malaysia Glass Association (MGA) that every product sold in Malaysia must adhere to prescribed safety and quality standards. He stressed that non-compliant products could jeopardize public safety and undermine businesses that strictly adhere to regulations.

The government's commitment to maintaining good governance, legal compliance, and accountability is at the core of these new import controls. Strengthening standards compliance is part of a comprehensive whole-of-government approach, involving close collaboration among ministries, regulatory agencies, and industry players, in line with the MADANI Government's framework.

The CIDB, tasked with developing, regulating, and improving the construction industry's quality and safety, will intensify its monitoring and enforcement of construction material standards. This includes stricter oversight of imports, compliance inspections, and enforcement actions against parties found to have violated regulations.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Finance will continue to collaborate with various ministries, agencies, and industry stakeholders to strengthen Malaysia's regulatory framework. This effort aims to promote sustainable economic growth, protect public interests and safety, and enhance the competitiveness of local businesses while ensuring transparency and integrity in the country's trading ecosystem.