KUALA LUMPUR: The ceiling retail price of the Covid-19 rapid antigen self-testing kits will be fixed at RM19.90 from Sunday (Sept 5) while wholesale prices would be set at a maximum of RM16.
Announcing this today, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi and Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin, in a statement, said the decision was made considering the rising cost of living and the support needed to manage the pandemic which has become more challenging in recent months.
Covid-19 self-test kits are currently priced between RM28 to RM41 in the market.
The announcement on the new ceiling prices comes on the heels of the government’s projection that the Covid-19 pandemic is poised to enter the endemic stage in about two-months when self-testing becomes a crucial aspect in managing the pandemic.
“The maximum price was set for the kits based on the reasonability and suitability for more effective enforcement so that there is no shortage in the kits supplies and they are available at reasonable prices,” read the statement.
However, the authorities expect the price to further stabilise as did the price of face masks.
The price was determined based on price surveillance in pharmacies nationwide, feedback from the Medical Device Authority and the Customs Department.
Discussions were also held with stakeholders including manufacturers, importers, retailers and pharmaceutical associations.
Failure to heed the ceiling price can lead to compounds under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act of 2011, with a maximum of RM50,000 or RM250,000 for individuals and companies, respectively.
The court fine does not exceed RM100,000 and or a three-year prison term for individuals while companies can face a fine of up to RM500,000.
For the second or subsequent offences, the offender faces a fine of RM1 million if found guilty.-NST