The Malaysian Rubber Council (MRC), operating under the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities, has reaffirmed its commitment to ethical and transparent business practices amidst recent discussions about the importation of medical gloves into India. As Malaysia remains a leading exporter of medical gloves to India, MRC has stressed its dedication to complying with Indian regulations while maintaining high ethical standards in global trade.
In response to concerns raised by the Indian Rubber Gloves Manufacturers Association (IRGMA), which has been pushing the Indian government to restrict glove imports, MRC has taken proactive steps to address regulatory issues. The association had lodged complaints against Malaysian exporters and Indian importers, citing alleged violations of local regulations.
To tackle these concerns, MRC has been working closely with Indian authorities. During a working visit to India in August 2024, MRC engaged with key stakeholders such as the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), and the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). These discussions focused on ensuring that Malaysian glove exports comply with India’s Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules 2016 and Medical Device Rules 2017.
One issue that emerged during the visit was the lack of specific guidelines on the allowable chlorine content in medical gloves under India’s Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules. The CPCB acknowledged the challenges this posed for manufacturers and importers and expressed its commitment to resolving these compliance difficulties.
Muhammad Eizaaz Muhammad Redzuan, CEO of MRC, emphasised the importance of maintaining trust and integrity in international business, saying, “MRC places immense importance on maintaining the integrity and trust of our global stakeholders. Our goal is to promote the continued growth of Malaysia’s rubber industry while ensuring adherence to international laws and regulatory requirements.”
MRC remains dedicated to fostering constructive dialogue with regulatory agencies and industry players, both in India and globally, to resolve trade challenges. The Malaysian glove industry, renowned for its commitment to quality, will continue to work closely with Indian authorities and international partners to uphold responsible trade practices.
