Cover image via Harian Metro & MYDIN Sarawak (Facebook)
Common imported fruits such as apples, oranges, and pears are staples for many Malaysians, including those in the low-income group, and should not be taxed, said Datuk Ameer Ali Mydin
The Mydin Mohamed Holdings Bhd managing director described the government's move to impose the sales and service tax (SST) on imported fruits as "nonsensical", reported Malaysiakini.
"I strongly disagree, and it makes no sense to impose SST on basic fruits like apples, oranges, bananas, and others. These are foods for the B40 group," he said.
Ameer added that these imported fruits are often linked to healthy eating habits and are commonly given as gifts when visiting someone in the hospital, reflecting both their cultural and nutritional significance.
Image for illustration purposes only.
Image via @MydinMalaysia (X)While local farmers produce some of these fruits, such as bananas, Ameer argued that demand outweighs supply
"Bananas, for example, yes, we have local sources, but the supply is not enough. A large portion is imported.
"Bananas, like apples and oranges, are considered staple fruits for the people, especially the B40 group," he said.
He also noted that local seasonal fruits, such as rambutan, mangosteen, and langsat, are not always available, making imported fruits essential for the market, reported The Star.
Ameer called on the government to clarify the scope of the expanded tax, noting that a list of exempted items has yet to be released.
"The government has yet to release an exemption list, so for now, we have to assume all imported fruits will be taxed. The Prime Minister often refers to avocados, but not everyone eats them.
"We need transparency about what this tax actually covers. Labelling it a luxury tax is misleading and risks widening the gap between income groups.
"It's misleading to claim that essential goods for the B40 are exempt when basic fruits are included. The government should be honest; this is clearly about revenue generation," he claimed.
On 1 July, a 5% tax will be applied to all imported fruits under the revised SST, while locally grown produce will remain be exempted.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim assured the public that the new tax will be progressive and will not burden ordinary Malaysians, reported Malaysiakini.
Learn more about the expanded SST on SAYS:
Expanded SST — Here's A List Of Everything That Will Cost 5 To 10% More Starting 1 July
Here Are The Fruits & Other Food Items That Might Cost Extra Starting Next Month
