ACCORDING to the Myanmar Corn Industrial Association, My­anmar has exported over two million tonnes of maize to foreign trade partners so far in the 2024- 2025 financial year.

Thailand is the top importer of Myanmar’s maize, which is also exported to China, India, the Philippines and Bangladesh.

At present, Myanmar’s maize is flowing into Thailand under a zero-tariff benefit. 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.

Additionally, China has been purchasing Myanmar’s maize through cross-border trade under the alternative develop­ment programme. Legitimate maize trade between Myanmar and China commenced at the end of 2022. A total of 112 My­anmar companies have been permitted for maize exports. Myanmar ships over two million tonnes of maize to foreign trade partners yearly. The maize is cul­tivated in Shan, Kachin, Kayah and Kayin states and Mandalay, Sagaing and Magway regions. Myanmar has three maize sea­sons – winter, summer, and mon­soon. Myanmar’s annual maize output is estimated at 2.5-3 mil­lion tonnes. — NN/KK