There has never been a conflict between federal and Sabah agencies in the import and export of products between the state and the Peninsular, particularly those that are food-based, says Chief Minister Musa Aman.

He said both governments worked well together on all matters and always came up with solutions when problems arose.

"We (federal and state governments) have a very strong relationship. But we will look into matters that may invite misunderstanding," he told reporters after launching the state Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen Day celebration in Kota Kinabalu today.

Musa was asked to comment on a claim by a local turkey meat exporter yesterday, that he had fallen victim to a so-called "trade war" between the federal and state veterinary agencies, after his import permit for the Peninsular market was suddenly denied.

However, Musa was made to understand that the exporter, Ooi Say Tuan, who said he had been exporting turkey meat to the Peninsular over the past year, had not complied with Federal import requirements.

According to a report by a local newspaper today, Ooi said he found there was a misunderstanding between the federal and Sabah veterinary agencies, with the latter having disallowed a meat exporter from Selangor from trying to bring in his products into the state without approval.

Therefore, Ooi claimed, an officer in the federal agency had decided to not entertain Sabah exporters.

Meanwhile, Musa hoped more youths, especially fresh graduates, would venture into agriculture to speed up the country's economic growth.

He said youths should grab opportunities by the government to develop the agricultural sector into a commercial and modern industry, that could provide a higher income to entrepreneurs.

- Bernama