The grain corn industry is relatively small in Malaysia. However, the development of the livestock industry, especially the ruminants, broilers and swine, requires millions of tons of grain corn as the main component of their feeds. Malaysia imports nearly 100% of grain corn from Brazil, Argentina and other countries.
What is corn used for in Malaysia?
Corn is also used in the production of industrial products such as ethanol and polylactic acid (PLA). The corn stems can be used to produce silage for ruminants. In general, corn is cultivated in all area in Malaysia.
Why is Malaysia taking a re-initiative to develop the grain corn industry?
After looking at high domestic needs and high dependency on import as well as foreign currency instability, the Malaysian government is taking a re-initiative to develop the national grain corn industry by involving the players in the entire supply chain of the industry.
Why is Malaysia a net importer of grain corn?
Currently Malaysia is the net importer of grain corn because the local production is unable to supply the higher demand of the livestock industry, especially the ruminants, broilers and swine. The government recognized the issues and challenges faced by this industry such as the lack of arable land and suitable weather for cultivating grain corn.