The Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) believes that there needs to be further explanation from the government regarding the approval process for liberalisation of cement and steel products.

According to a statement made on Tuesday, contractors are still facing difficulties in importing steel bars even after the liberalisation of steel products since May 12.

MBAM said several thousand metric tones of steel bars are stranded in Johor Causeway because custom officers disallowed entry of the consignment without Approved Permit (AP) and certification of conformity to MS146.

Under the latest custom order on liberalisation of steel bars, exemption of AP and import duty would be given if the imported bars complied with MS146 or "equivalent".

"In the construction industry, the word 'equivalent' is perceived to cover BS4449 which is the specification being used in all construction tenders and by many consulting engineers," MBAM said.

Minister of International Trade and Industry, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said that the government needs to further explain to market players about the approval process for liberalisation of cement and steel products.

With assurance from the ministry, MBAM is hopeful that the issue will be resolved.