Thriving stable maize in Yesagyo, Magway Region. Photo: Pe Tun Zaw
Concerted efforts are being exerted by maize growers, associations and authorities to export over 10,000 tonnes of maize to China under a quota system, said U Khin Maung Lwin, the assistant secretary of the Ministry of Commerce.
The plan aims to revitalize the maize market using a preferential quota system that can save the tax rate.
The growers will call on the authorities concerned to provide government subsidies so that the maize sells for a higher price. That means the government or the merchants make advanced purchases of the maize to allow the growers to earn more. The growers also want the businessmen to sell grain dryers through an instalment plan.
The number of acres of land used for maize plantation are on the rise year by year. China is the main export market, but the market has recently cooled due to confiscation from China’s side.
Maize was offered at Ks8,000 per basket last year. However, the maize price dropped down to Ks6,500 per basket in October.—200