In a statement to FMT, Fama said the agency was working closely with all industry players to monitor and stabilise produce prices across various levels of the supply chain.

It added that proactive measures had been taken to ensure a sufficient supply of vegetables and fruits at retail outlets nationwide to meet consumer demand, particularly during the festive season and year-end school holidays.

Fama said all parties must understand that the agricultural market is influenced by dynamic factors such as the climate, agricultural input costs, currency exchange rates, and global demand.

“Fama remains committed to supporting farmers, protecting consumer interests, and ensuring that the agricultural market remains competitive and sustainable,” it added.

Yesterday, CAP criticised Fama for allegedly failing to control the sharp price hikes for vegetables and fruits over the past two weeks – a result of lower supply due to the monsoon season.

CAP said despite repeated calls for action, Fama had not taken “sufficient and effective steps” to control the marketing and distribution of vegetables.

The NGO said its surveys found that the price of beans had surged from RM9 to RM17.50 per kg, ladies’ fingers from RM7 to RM12.50, long beans from RM8 to RM20, mustard greens from RM6 to RM12 and red chillies from RM8 to RM18.