Pontian: Pineapple producer and exporter Aqina Fruits Sdn Bhd experienced a substantial increase in export value in 2025, reaching RM2.68 million, a significant rise from RM628,000 in 2024. Export volume also increased from 172 tonnes to 690 tonnes over the same period.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Aqina Fruits director Wesley Tan Seah Ging stated that by December 2025, the company had successfully penetrated international markets including China, Japan, Bahrain, Iraq, and Oman. "The largest exports of fresh fruit are to China, followed by Middle Eastern countries such as Bahrain and Iraq," he informed.
In addition to fresh pineapples, the Pontian-based company is propelling growth through pineapple-based downstream products under the Ananas Republic brand, including dried pineapple snacks and pineapple chips. These products are crafted from 100 percent MD2 pineapple using vacuum freeze-drying technology without preservatives, sugar, or additives. Tan emphasized that product diversification ensures steady demand from export markets and highlighted the company's GLOBALG.A.P. certification, a requirement for exporting fresh pineapples to European countries.
Tan noted that 40 percent of Aqina Fruits' marketing efforts target export markets, with the remaining 60 percent focused on the domestic market. As of last December, the MD2 pineapple planting project at Aqina Fruits spanned 445.16 hectares, contributing to the rising demand for fresh fruit exports. He assured that the company, as an active player in the pineapple industry, is committed to maintaining high-quality crops to support the nation's food security.
The company plans to enhance farm operations and optimize modern technology use, such as controlled-release fertilizers, artificial intelligence, and automation. One of the primary objectives is to replace up to 60 percent of human labor with technology and agricultural inputs. Aqina Fruits, recognized as one of Malaysia's leading pineapple exporters, received the 2025 Pineapple Icon Award at Malaysia Pineapple Day 2025, acknowledging its leadership, innovation, and positive impact on the agri-food sector.