Live seafood exports to boost overseas earnings

MARINE products from Kaw­thoung and Myeik in the Tanin­tharyi Region are exported in frozen form every year, and if these products are exported live and directly, the country can earn more foreign income than now and also gain access to a new market for live marine products.

Among the exports of fish and shrimp, Taninthayi Region increases its export volume an­nually more than other regions. In the 2024-2025 financial year, the country earned about US$725 million from marine product ex­ports. Of this export revenue, Taninthayi Region contributed US$303.62 million through the export of raw products. If these products could be processed into value-added goods and exported live, the marine aquaculture and production sector would develop even further.

The saltwater shrimp is be­ing farmed in Yebyu, Kyun­su, Pulaw and Kawthoung of Taninthayi Region, and other marine products such as prawn, soft shell crab and fish are also bred and exported. The export of live lobster and other marine shrimp varie­ties, which are highly favoured overseas for their freshness and cleanliness, could significantly in­crease foreign earnings. Marine business operators are enthusi­astic about making such exports possible.

The Myanmar white shrimp (Vannamei) from Myeik Archi­pelago is being exported to Chi­na and Japan, while the boiled ones to China and frozen ones to Japan through sea route. If live products could be exported directly by air, both the country and business operators would gain greater profits.

 “We are currently exporting marine products in frozen form. If live exports become possible, profits will increase significantly. We are cooperating with the De­partment of Fisheries. Yangon is convenient for air transport, but Myeik Airport still faces dif­ficulties accommodating cargo aircraft. In particular, prepara­tions for live export lobster, ti­ger shrimp, and white Vannamei shrimp are already favourable. Since demand is strong and the number of breeders is increasing, the country will earn more for­eign currency. Airlines will also benefit if each flight can carry between 15 and 20 tonnes. If live products can be exported direct­ly from Myeik Airport to China and Japan, export volumes can double, and Myanmar will also gain a new market for live ma­rine exports,” said U Thet Soe, secretary of Taninthayi Region fisheries federation.

Currently, Taninthayi Re­gion exports fish, shrimp and live snails to Thailand and to China by flight. Although profits are lower due to high transportation costs, exports continue in order to maintain the trade flow. — Thitsa (MNA)/KTZH