Demand for sugarcane surges in Arakan State

By Admin 28 Oct 2024

DMG Newsroom
28 October 2024, Mrauk-U

Sugarcane growers in Arakan State have been benefiting from high demand fueled by increased domestic consumption.

Fewer farmers grew sugarcane last year as there was no market. More people grew sugarcane this year and their product is fetching good prices.

One sugarcane grower from Kyauktaw Township said: "The business is better this year. The harvest is not yet due, but buyers have already come. We get better prices compared with previous years." 

Growers get 1,000 kyats per sugarcane this year, up from 500 kyats the previous year.

The regime has blocked roadways and waterways throughout Arakan State since fighting between its forces and the Arakkha Army (AA) flared anew in November, restricting the flow of food and other basic commodities. Without goods from other parts of the country in the market, the demand for locally produced goods has increased.

One displaced man from Mrauk-U Township said: "You can't buy a snack with 1,000 kyats now. A sugarcane is enough for three people to eat. It is worth buying as children also like it."

Sugarcane is grown in Kyauktaw, Mrauk-U, Ponnagyun and Ann townships, and previously was sold across Arakan State. Due to the fighting, sugarcane growers in Dar Lat Chaung area of Ann Township will not be able to harvest.

"Though we can't supply Sittwe like before, a market has developed in areas controlled by the AA. The demand is high due to high consumption," said one sugarcane trader.

Despite fertile soil, the agriculture industry in Arakan State has been in decline due to limited access to technology, capital and markets. Farmers have called for systematic measures to revive the farming industry in the state.