Speaking to reporters after conducting the spot check, Ismail said he did not deny that there was an increase in the price of chicken and other raw materials.

“We still give subsidies for chicken until June 30. So, I don’t understand why wholesalers are selling at RM8.90 (a kg). Before June 30, the price is still being subsidised by the government. The price should not have reached RM8.90.”

Ismail said chicken (from the wholesalers) should be priced lower as retailers also need to make a profit, he said after visiting Quill City Mall here.

The prime minister said he would continue to carry out more spot checks to ensure that there is no profiteering before subsidies for chicken and some other goods are removed from July 1.

Ismail also said he would hold a special meeting tomorrow with the agriculture and food industries ministry and domestic trade and consumer affairs ministry to discuss chicken supply and the new ceiling price for chicken.

The increase in the price of some other items, such as fish, will also be discussed.

“I hope both ministries can take strict action if there is excessive profiteering,” he said.

During the spot check, Ismail also spent time listening to the grouses of the people who shopped at the supermarket. He said most of those whom he met complained about the increase in prices of goods.