Malaysian Agro-Food Products Have Big Potential In The Netherlands

From Nasriah Darus ROTTERDAM (NETHERLANDS), Nov 7 (Bernama) -- Malaysian agro-food products have a big potential in the Netherlands, said Malaysia's ambassador to that country, Ahmad Nazri Yusof. He said although Malaysia's agriculture production was similar to that of other Asian countries, agro-food products scored in terms of an uniqueness derived from the taste and quality resulting from the different ethnic and cultural blend. "They (the Dutch) like our food products. In 2015, the export value of Malaysian agro-food products to the Netherlands stood at US$394.61 million (RM1.66 billion), a rise, when compared to the US$327.89 million (RM1.38 billion) the previous year," he told Bernama here. The meeting with Ahmad Nazri took place during the Malaysian agricultural products promotion week organised by the Agricultural Representative Office The Hague (PPP The Hague) at the Wah Nam Hong supermarket at Rotterdam's Markthal (Market Hall) on Saturday. "I am confident we can do better in the Netherlands by enhancing quality and consistent product supply," he added. Malaysia's main agro-food exports to the Netherlands is processed products, cocoa, coffee, tea , spices as well as fishery products. Imports of US$1.99 billion (RM8.38 billion) comprised agro-food (mainly processed products),vegetables and dairy products. Ahmad Nazri said in terms of exports, consistent supply was very important to maintain reputation in the highly competitive sector, while undertaking research and development to ensure products of high quality. "Malaysian exporters also need to take the opportunity to introduce exotic fruits that are not as yet available in the market, or what is available in limited varieties such as bananas, which are a favourite among the Dutch. The promotion week, themed, "Taste of Malaysia" also had culinary presentations using ingredients from Malaysia by London-based Chef Norman Musa. Patrons of the Asian supermarket had an opportunity to purchase as well as taste food and fruits such as jackfruit and durians. An exporter of tropical fruits to Europe, DRS Trading Sdn Bhd, which participated in the promotion, brought along a tonne of Malaysian fruits. The Malaysian week also involved Tourism Malaysia and the Malaysian External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade). Among the other Malaysian fruits being promoted are magosteens, rambutans, dragon fruit, ciku, dokong, water jambu and salak, as well as agro-industry products as spices, paste and kerepek from Agromas. The promotional programme ends Sunday and is the last in a series for 2016 after Sweden, Finland and Romania. -- BERNAMA