Myanmar plans to export locally-grown dwarf coconuts

Myanmar is reportedly planning to export dwarf coconuts, which are locally grown, in addition to distributing them in the domestic market, according to the coconut market.
“The packaging seals dwarf coconuts sold in the stores. The liquid is mixed, and they are imported from Thailand. We plan to export coconuts to Thailand. We learnt that coconut water is produced and distributed in the local market,” said Ko Aung Thuya, a coconut farmer in Dagon Myothit (North) Township.
Dwarf coconuts distributed in the local market cost K3,000-K5,000 per piece depending on the size, and with more cultivation and distribution in the local market, the price can drop to K3,000 a piece, coconut shops said, adding they have started supplying the Yangon market.
“There are difficulties in producing finished products. I heard they will be exported to the other side as it is. Or they will produce finished products with technical assistance. It is a bit expensive on the other side. They bear fruits in three to five years. If it is over five years, it yields about eight pieces,” he explained.
Cultivating an acre of dwarf coconuts can earn K600,000 a month and over K8 million a year, and it is grown mainly for liquids. If they are grown with five metres (over 16 feet) spacing, a total of 160 plants can be cultivated in one acre. A bunch of coconuts bears 5 to 20 pieces, and a plant yields 18 bunches a year. — Thit Taw/ZN