Visitor Guide To Malaysia: Malaysia Hotels, Malaysian, Travel

< Prev		Next >

Malaysia has the distinction of being the world’s fifth largest black pepper producer with around 20,000 tonnes produced annually. Pepper is grown predominantly in the state of Sarawak, which accounts for around 95% of local production, with some in Sabah and Johor. Annual production is approximately 25,000 tonnes of which 90% is exported.

Sarawak pepper entered global markets as early as in the 1970s in countries like Japan, Spain and the United States. It has since broadened its base From January to July 2007 a total of 8,220 tonnes were exported from Sarawak, generating a total estimated RM 93,681,000. Total exports for the year (2007) is projected at 19,000 tonners.

The Malaysian Pepper Board (MPB) is conducting in depth R&D exercises to broaden the range of pepper products. It is promoting production of new products to meet niche market needs. Among the products targetted are creamy white pepper, naturally clean black pepper, extra bold black pepper and dehydrated green pepper. Pharmaceutical and perfume-related products from pepper are among those with potential to be developed further.