The Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (LPNM) welcomes the statement by the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, regarding the request from the New Zealand authorities to see an increase in pineapple exports from Malaysia to its nation, following his official visit to New Zealand on 18th July 2025.
As an agency responsible for driving the development of the national pineapple industry, LPNM views this development as a strategic opportunity to expand Malaysia’s export market reach into high-impact regions. New Zealand’s intention reflects recognition of the quality, safety, and competitiveness of Malaysian pineapples, particularly the premium MD2 variety, which is increasingly gaining traction among international consumers.
LPNM has conducted two series of trial export studies of value-added pineapple products to the New Zealand market (October 2024 and June 2025). This study aims to assess the potential acceptance of downstream Malaysian pineapple products like frozen pineapple cubes, dried pineapple chunks, pineapple chips, pineapple ice cream, and pineapple Gel-Energy. Research findings show very positive feedback, particularly in terms of taste, packaging quality, and compliance with food safety standards and the import requirements of the country.
Currently, LPNM is collaborating with the relevant bodies to assess the country’s capability and readiness to export to New Zealand in accordance with all established standards. LPNM is always committed to ensuring that Malaysia’s pineapple supply is sufficient and consistent in meeting international market demand, including New Zealand.
Several strategic steps have been implemented and are underway to ensure the sustainability of quality supply that meets export standards.
Among the key initiatives implemented are:
1. Expansion of Planting Areas: Cooperation between LPNM and the State Government. LPNM always receives strong cooperation from the state government for development and Expansion of Pineapple Planting Areas. The increase in the area of pineapple cultivation in each state shows their interest in making pineapple one of the sectors in the respective states.
2. Support for Entrepreneurs and Small Farmers: through the provision of incentives, technical training, and continuous mentorship, LPNM empowers the involvement of more local producers to increase productivity and yield.
3. Supply Chain Management: The supply chain from farm to market is continuously refined and monitored to ensure the smooth production, collection, and distribution of products that meet export market requirements.
4. Emphasis on Quality and Food Safety Focus: Given to the production of high-quality pineapples through good agricultural practices (GAP, MyGAP, and GLOBALG.A.P.), the use of modern post-harvest technology including packaging and storage, as well as compliance with food safety standards certification such as HACCP.
5. The Cross-Agency Cooperation of LPNM also collaborates closely with other government agencies to facilitate the export process, including compliance with quarantine regulations, facility audits, and technical requirements set by importing countries such as New Zealand.
Data for 2024 shows that Malaysia has successfully exported 30,735 metric tons of pineapple-based products such as juice, canned pineapples, ornamental products, and IAT products. Meanwhile, for fresh pineapples, 11,633 metric tons have been exported with a value of RM23,069,807.00 to more than 20 countries, including major markets such as China, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Japan. The total export value of Malaysian pineapple products in 2024 is RM1.73 billion. LPNM will continue to strengthen the competitiveness of the national pineapple industry through a data-driven, technology, and market-based approach. This initiative is in line with the national agro-commodity policy that emphasises sustainable growth, value addition, and global marketability.
LPNM also expresses its highest appreciation to the Deputy Prime Minister for his commitment and efforts in promoting the country’s agricultural products, particularly pineapples, on the international stage. With the cooperation of all parties, LPNM is confident that Malaysia can become one of the leading producers of high-quality tropical pineapples that the world trusts.
