SEREMBAN Oct 7 - The government cannot prevent a hike in the price of milk as it has risen in the world market, said Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

He said the hike in the price of dairy products was unavoidable as local producers had to bear the high cost of import due to higher price of raw products.

"It is normal for dearer goods to be sold at higher prices. However, the price stays for the time being. We can't suppress the price as it is beyond our control.

"The hike in the price of garlic is a good example as it is imported from China," he said after opening the new Negeri Sembilan KPDNKK building in Seremban 2 here today.

Newspaper reports said that the price of skimmed milk was expected to increase to over AS$3,000 (RM9,630) per tonne this year compared to AS$2,100 (RM6,741) in fourth quarter last year.

Ismail said the Price Control and Anti-Rationing Act to be tabled in parliament this month would prevent profiteering but it would not prevent price hikes.

He urged consumers to plan their shopping as this would lead to wise spending.

- Bernama