Good-quality melons and muskmelons exported from Myanmar to China are receiving stable prices, although export volumes remain low, according to border wholesale trading centres. Shipments are moving through the Mongla route, where both fruits are selling at five to six yuan per kilo (US$0.70 to US$0.84), Khwarnyo fruits wholesale trading centre reported.
Export quantities remain restricted because rain-fed melons are not able to withstand the longer transport times required for the current route. A representative from the fruits wholesale trading centre said, "Muskmelons, which were grown with the expectation of the Muse trading route, have been exported through Mongla only for now. Even if it costs more and takes the journey longer, there is no option but to transport them to their destination when the time arrives. The price of melon and muskmelon is good."
Producers had planned for exports through Muse, the usual overland crossing, but ongoing limitations have resulted in all current shipments being channelled through Mongla. This has increased both cost and travel duration, which affects fruit quality and reduces the quantity that can be exported.
Despite the stable price levels reported at the border, trading centres indicate that only limited volumes of high-quality melons and muskmelons are entering the export chain. Growers and exporters continue to monitor route availability and post-harvest performance as the Mongla corridor remains the only operational channel for the current season.
Source: New Light of Myanmar
