Malaysia to increase imports from India

Citing India’s importance as Malaysia’s third-largest export destination in 2018 for palm oil and palm-based products worth US$ 1.63 billion, Kuala Lumpur is thinking of boosting imports of raw sugar and buffalo meat from India. Relations soured between the two nations due to Malaysia’s criticism of India’s actions in Kashmir. New Delhi had reacted by saying that it could restrict Malaysian palm oil imports.

“The minister views with concern recent news reports regarding unfavourable bilateral relations between Malaysia and India as both countries have enjoyed strong and comprehensive relations for more than six decades,” Malaysia’s Ministry of Primary Industries said in a statement.