KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 7 (Reuters) - Southeast Asian countries have agreed to prioritise helping each other overcome rice supply shortages and other food-related problems, Malaysia state news agency Bernama reported, citing the agricultural minister.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) reached the agreement at a meeting in Kuala Lumpur this week, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu said on Friday, according to the agency.
"ASEAN collaboration means if we face rice issues, ASEAN member countries will give priority to ASEAN nations first," he said.
Malaysia, which imports about 38% of its rice needs, is among several countries affected by top exporters like India restricting shipments.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim warned of legal action against anyone found hoarding rice, to prevent consumers from stockpiling local grains.
Persons:
Bernama, Mohamad Sabu, Mohamad, Anwar Ibrahim, Danial Azhar, William Mallard
Organizations:
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, ASEAN, Food Security, Monday, Thomson
Locations:
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Agriculture, ASEAN, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, India