MALI plans special export zones for black gram amid strong market prices

THE Ministry of Agri­culture, Livestock and Irrigation is planning to establish special export zones for cultivation of highly-demanded black gram.

Myanmar cultivates over 11 million acres of pulses annually, with black gram and pigeon pea accounting for more than 35 per cent of the total. Black gram pric­es are currently strong, prompting the ministry to designate special ex­port zones for the crop. “Strong market prices prompt the ministry to establish special export zones for black gram cul­tivation.

We are also discuss­ing this with the relevant association,” an official from the ministry said. India is the primary buyer of Myanmar black gram, accounting for up to 40 per cent of pulses purchases. Other buyers include Chi­na (15 per cent), Singapore (four per cent), Vietnam (three per cent), Pakistan (two per cent) and other countries (36 per cent). Myanmar also aims to earn approximately US$2 billion from pulse exports in the coming years, according to the ministry. — KK