Vegetable industry in Malaysia is smaller than that of industrial crops like rubber, oil palm and cocoa. The annual production is only 330,000 tons and the requirement is estimated at about 400,000 tons. Malaysia imports about M$242 million worth of vegetables annually and the main vegetables imported are onion, shallot, garlic, potato, chilli, cabbage and processed vegetables.
The industry faces several constraints, including lack of good varieties, problems of pests and diseases, and problems of seed supply. Research conducted by MARDI and Universities has so far led to the development of several technologies relating to varieties, pest and disease control, post-harvest handling and cultural practices.
This paper outlines, the status of the vegetable industry, the constraints and the achievements of research and development.