Over 50,000 tonnes of watermelons and muskmelons slated this year for Chinese market
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Hsu/ Pearl (NP News) - January 22
A trader told The Statesman that more than 50,000 tonnes of watermelons and muskmelons are expected to be exported to China this year.
Watermelons and muskmelons from Sagaing and Mandalay regions are currently being exported to China via the Taunggyi–Kengtung–Mongla border gate. However, the journey takes at least seven days; Long transport time has led to intense market competition and suppressed prices for traders.
"About 10 truckloads of watermelons and 20 truckloads of muskmelons are produced daily. The muskmelons come from Chaung-U, while watermelons arrive from various areas. So far, we've exported 2,500 to 3,000 tonnes of muskmelons and around 1,500 tonnes of watermelons—specifically via Mongla. We estimate earnings of roughly 15 million yuan to date; this is just a rough calculation," the trader said.
Nearly 5,000 tonnes of watermelons and muskmelons have already been exported; officials expect to export no less than 50,000 tonnes over the course of the season.
"There are many watermelon varieties, including striped, black-skinned, and seedless types. Although selling prices vary on the Chinese side, customs duties remain the same. Muskmelons are the golden variety. We expect to export around 50,000 tonnes over the season, running from November through April or May," he added.
Furthermore, exporting muskmelons to China requires passing through over 75 checkpoints, with total costs exceeding three million kyats. These expenses, combined with the logistical hurdles, create significant difficulties for traders. Currently, market prices for muskmelons range from 3,500 to 4,500 yuan per tonne, with at least 20 trucks traveling these routes daily to reach China.