Myanmar's Seintalone mango growers face challenges due to trade disruptions with China, impacting market share. Khwarnyo Fruit Depot of Mandalay indicates that without access to the Chinese market this year, Myanmar's Seintalone mango will lose market share. Although the Seintalone variety commands a good price domestically, the supply exceeds local demand, which has dropped by 50%.
Currently, there is no trade route to China, the primary buyer. As a result, other countries may capture more export market share. Initial exports to China did not cover costs, posing financial challenges for exporters.
In late 2024, officials from the Mandalay Region Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Dehong Prefecture met to discuss facilitating mango exports to China. They focused on fast delivery, smooth customs clearance, and exploring potential trade channels. They also addressed trade barriers on the Kengtung-Mongla-Dalo road, including tax and freight issues.
Transport hurdles like rough roads and extreme weather affect fruit quality. Muse Road remains the sole option during the mango season, according to Khwanyo Fruit Depot. Exporters face challenges related to export channels and fruit quality.
The high cost of cultivation inputs affects growers, with low input use last year impacting quality and causing postharvest diseases. Some traders couldn't cover cultivation costs due to inferior quality.
Myanmar has around 200 mango varieties, with Seintalone, Shwehintha, Padamya Ngamauk, Yinkwe, and Machitsu being prominent. Seintalone is preferred in foreign markets. Ayeyawady Region has the largest mango plantations, with approximately 18,615 hectares, followed by Bago Region with 17,401 hectares, and Mandalay with 11,736 hectares. Kayin State, Shan State, and Sagaing Region also have substantial mango acreage.
Source: New Light of Myanmar