MYANMAR have started to ship maize to Thailand under Customs Tariff exemption, maize traders said.
Thailand gives the green light for maize imports under zero tariff (with Form D), between 1 February and 31 August. However, Thailand imposes a maximum tax rate of 73 per cent on maize imports to protect the rights of their growers if the maize is imported during the maize season of Thailand. Therefore, traders are stocking them to export under duty exemption.
Myanmar’s maize is primarily exported to the Philippines, Vietnam and India through maritime trade. They are also sent to neighbouring countries at borders.
Myanmar shipped 1.88 million tonnes of maize in the eight months of the current financial year 2024-2025 beginning 1 April, bagging US$477 million, according to Myanmar Pulses, Beans, Maize and Sesame Seeds Merchants Association.
Myanmar exports around two million tonnes of maize. The corn is cultivated in Shan, Kachin, Kayah and Kayin states and Mandalay, Sagaing and Magway regions. Myanmar has three corn seasons — winter, summer and monsoon. Myanmar’s annual corn output is estimated at 2.5-3 million tonnes. — NN/KK
