Pineapples in Myanmar Enter Peak Production Season, Targeting Chinese Market

According to Myanmar media reports, pineapples primarily sold domestically in Myanmar are now targeting the Chinese market.

Pineapples are widely cultivated in Shan and Mon States, especially in southern Shan State's Hsihseng, Namsang, and Mongkaing, with approximately 6,000 acres of plantation, and in northern Shan State's Hsipaw, Tangyan, and Lashio, with around 7,000 acres. Myanmar's annual pineapple production ranges between 30,000-40,000 tons, with the harvest season from July to September, primarily featuring Hsipaw and Taiwanese varieties. Merchants typically purchase pineapples from production sites in early July, mainly supplying Mandalay and Yangon markets.

As early as November 2024, China's General Administration of Customs issued a notice allowing the import of fresh Myanmar pineapples meeting specific requirements. However, due to Myanmar's internal conflict, areas like Qingshui River, Muse, and roads connecting southern and northern Shan State have been blocked, making trade challenging.

Previously, Myanmar pineapples were extensively exported to China through border trade via the Muse 105 Trade Zone, accounting for approximately 50% of the national production. On June 16, 2019, this illegal export method was officially halted by Chinese authorities, causing severe losses to Myanmar's pineapple industry. Although exporters attempted to ship pineapples to Thailand, Singapore, and other countries, export volumes remained significantly low.

The Customs General Administration's website indicates that 245 Myanmar companies are currently authorized to export pineapples to China, with most located in Shan State. According to the Myanmar Trade Promotion Organization, a company representing farmers in northern Shan State plans to export pineapples to China through border trade during the current pineapple season. In recent years, bilateral negotiations between China and Myanmar have yielded fruitful results, with Myanmar pineapples now permitted for maritime trade to China.

Image source: gnlm2025 International Fruit and Vegetable Report. All rights reserved. Reproduction requires permission from International Fruit and Vegetable Report.