Myanmar is gearing up to venture into the global durian export market, aiming to launch exports by 2023 or at the latest by 2027. This move is part of a strategic plan to generate additional foreign income and bolster the nation’s local durian industry.
According to Kyaw Min, the chairman of the Myanmar Durian Producers and Exporters Association, the registration process with the General Administration of Customs of China has already commenced. The focus is not only on the export of fresh durians but also processed durian products.
Min revealed that the association is actively seeking foreign investors, industry experts, and business partners to foster the development of value-added durian processing within the country. The belief is that this initiative will catalyze swift growth in Myanmar’s durian industry and generate new streams of foreign income once exports commence.
China stands as the globe’s leading consumer of this strong-smelling fruit. In the previous year, China imported a record-breaking 15.6 million tonnes of durian, valued at a staggering US$6.99 billion. The majority of these imports originated from Thailand and Vietnam, with contributions of 57% and 41.5% respectively. The remaining percentage of imports came from the Philippines and Malaysia.
However, this year has recorded a dip in demand, with a 15% decrease in imports during the first half of the year. This equates to a total of 708,190 tonnes. The market has also become more competitive, with new players like Cambodia, which shipped its initial durian batch in July.
Laos has expressed interest in joining the competitive market, and Indonesia has publicized plans to ship durians directly to China, bypassing their previous route through Thailand.
Currently, Myanmar cultivates durians on approximately 60,000 acres (24,281 hectares) of land. More than 4,000 of these acres are located in Yangon, a central durian producing region. Other significant production hubs include the Kayin and Mon states and the Tanintharyi, Bago, and Ayeyarwady regions.
According to Myint Sein, a trustee of the Ayeyarwady Durian Producers and Exporters Cluster, Myanmar’s durian season traditionally falls in May, June, and July. Sein emphasizes that the development of the durian industry in Myanmar will significantly benefit local farmers and contribute substantially to national economic growth.
What is Myanmar’s plan for its durian industry?
Myanmar plans to begin exporting durians to the global market by 2023 or 2027 to increase foreign income and grow its local industry.
Who are the major players in the global durian market?
China is the largest buyer, and the main suppliers are Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Malaysia. New entries Cambodia, Laos, and Indonesia are also establishing their presence.
What impact could the development of the durian industry have on Myanmar?
The development of the durian industry is expected to significantly uplift local farmers and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
