Myanmar faces Pestalotiopsis outbreak, reducing rubber production and exports
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Hsu/ Yoon (NP News) - Jan 16
The Myanmar Rubber Planters and Producers Association (MRPPA) has reported that rubber production may significantly decline this financial year due to a fungal disease affecting rubber trees, despite plans to export over 300,000 tons.
The disease, identified as Pestalotiopsis, which causes premature leaf fall, is believed to have spread to Myanmar from Indonesia. It is now widespread in Mon State, with reports indicating a high level of infection in the region.
"In Mon State," began U Aung Myint Htoo, Chairman of MRPPA, in an interview with The Statesman Journal, "the infection is quite severe. Trees that have not been adequately fertilized or are poorly nourished are more susceptible. The disease spreads through the air and is unrelated to the type of rubber planted. It has severely impacted Indonesia before spreading here. It can significantly reduce yield, potentially cutting production by half in severe cases. The situation also depends on how well the trees are managed. We will need to monitor closely during the summer."
Reports indicate the disease gradually entered Myanmar about three years ago and has since escalated due to a lack of effective control measures.
"In some areas, tapping has been temporarily suspended for safety reasons. The disease isn't confined to a single region. It has been slowly spreading to Myanmar for around three years, but its prevalence has increased significantly this year. Unfortunately, it cannot be fully controlled. However, proper soil fertilization and maintenance can help trees withstand the disease," U Aung Myint Htoo added.
Rubber production in Myanmar is highest in Mon State, followed by Tanintharyi Region and Kayin State. Other regions and states also contribute to rubber cultivation.
Currently, there are approximately 1.64 million acres of rubber plantations nationwide, yielding an annual output exceeding 200,000 tons. For the 2024-2025 financial year, the country aims to significantly increase exports to 326,000 tons.
Approximately 75 percent of Myanmar's rubber exports go to China, while the remaining exports are directed to countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, South Korea, and Japan, according to the Myanmar Rubber Planters and Producers Association. –