The government will impose a ceiling price for certain food items during the third phase of the movement control order (MCO), which begins on Wednesday until April 28.

Senior Minister (security cluster) Ismail Sabri Yaakob said price control initiatives were usually in place during festive seasons, but the cabinet has decided to bring it forward during a special meeting this morning.

He said the list of controlled items will be published by the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry soon.

"Since we are entering (the third phase) of the MCO, the government is prepared for a possibility that traders might take advantage (of the situation) to raise prices (indiscriminately)," he said.

Ismail said the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry has received 8,145 complaints so far regarding supply and prices since the MCO was implemented on March 18.