KUALA LUMPUR: PLS Plantations Bhd has entered into a memorandum of business exploration with China-based Guangzhou Jiangnan Agriculture Development Co Ltd to build a regional one-stop wholesale market in Johor for the processing and marketing of Malaysian agricultural produce.

       PLS said in a statement today that the regional wholesale market, which will be built in Pasir Gudang in Johor, was a significant step towards boosting Malaysia’s food security programme.

       PLS executive vice-chairman Tan Sri Lim Kang Hoo said the one-stop offtake centre in Pasir Gudang will serve as a hub for farmers and other food producers seeking support services, market access and logistical assistance.

       "The aim is to streamline the supply chain process, provide convenience and efficiency for producers and consumers alike. It will handle all aspects of agriculture, aquaculture and meat production for both local consumption and export markets,” he said.

       He pointed out that the two parties will also explore investments in farming and plantations, including factories for processing, packaging and distribution of quality products to local and export markets, and one of the main products would be durian upstream and downstream products.

       "Both parties would also collaborate to source for agricultural products and ensure fair pricing and market access for producers,” he said.

       He added that this collaboration would significantly enhance the procurement of high-quality products, adherence to regulatory standards and the establishment of reliable supply chains to meet consumer demand.

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       Guangzhou Jiangnan is one of the largest fruit and vegetable wholesale markets in China and the largest fruit and vegetable distribution centre in Southeast Asia, with a total annual sales transaction of RM30 billion achieved last year. - Bernama