Malaysia on Tuesday partially lifted a ban on chicken exports aimed at fighting domestic shortages, but prices in neighboring Singapore sparked protests.
However, restrictions are being eased on only certain types of chicken – not the most exported to Singapore – meaning the impact may be limited.
The ban on exports of 3.6 million chickens every month, which began on June 1, was the latest protectionist move in Asia as prices of everyday goods rise.
But it caused panic in Singapore, a small city-state that depends on its larger neighbor for a good share of its food imports, which also includes about a third of chicken.
There were particular concerns over the effect on “chicken rice”, a hugely popular dish of cooked chicken, rice and chili dip, with some vendors raising their prices or temporarily closing stalls.
Malaysian authorities have now decided to allow the export of free-range and black chickens, according to a notice from the country’s Department of Veterinary Services, seen by AFP.
Singapore media reported that exports resumed from Tuesday.
However, the ban remains for so-called broiler chickens, the larger birds raised in commercial operations, which are the type most commonly exported to Singapore.
According to news outlet CNA, the Singapore Poultry Merchant Association expressed relief but downplayed the impact of the move, as free-range chickens are more expensive than broiler birds.
“I don’t think customers will want to switch completely to selling kampung (free-range) chicken,” said union secretary Ma Chin Chew.
Like many other countries, Malaysia is battling rising inflation, especially when it comes to food, which prompted it to impose restrictions.
But Singapore is also facing rising prices, with inflation hitting a 10-year high.
Other countries that have taken protectionist measures include India, which has banned wheat exports, and Indonesia, which has temporarily halted shipments of palm oil.
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