How are farmers affected by illegal immigrant involvement in wholesale?

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Farmers Face Financial Losses Due to Alleged Wholesale Monopolisation

Farmers in Keningau have reported significant financial losses stemming from the alleged monopolisation of the agricultural product wholesale business by illegal immigrants. This situation has prevented local farmers from selling their produce at fair prices, thereby impacting their profitability and livelihoods. The Sabah government has acknowledged these claims and initiated an investigation into the matter.
Allegations of Market Domination

The Sabah Interior Smallholders Association (Pekebun) has put forward claims that the wholesale business in Keningau is dominated by foreign nationals. This alleged monopoly is cited as the direct cause of financial detriment to local farmers, who are reportedly unable to secure reasonable prices for their farm produce. The specific scale or market share controlled by these individuals has not been detailed.
Impact on Produce Pricing

A key consequence of the alleged foreign monopolisation is the distortion of market prices for agricultural products. Farmers are finding it difficult to sell their goods at prices that reflect the actual value or cover their production costs. This inability to achieve reasonable pricing is a central concern raised by the affected farming community in Keningau.
Government Investigation and Action

In response to these serious allegations, the Sabah Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry has stated that a thorough investigation will be conducted. The ministry has also advised farmers and growers to immediately cease supplying their produce to any wholesalers suspected of being illegal immigrants. This directive aims to disrupt the alleged monopolistic activities while the investigation proceeds.
Regulatory and Legal Framework

The State Agriculture and Food Industry Minister, Junz Wong, emphasised that all business activities, including wholesale, require a valid licence. He indicated that if the claims are substantiated, the ministry will take a firm stance against such illegal operations, as they contravene existing laws mandating licences for any business engagement. Special monitoring will be implemented to identify illegal immigrants involved in wholesale activities in Keningau.

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How are farmers affected by illegal immigrant involvement in wholesale?

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