Myanmar signs MoU with Vietnam to bolster coconut sector

Myanmar signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Vietnam to boost cooperation in the development of the coconut sector at Pan Pacific Hotel in Yangon on 29 May, according to the Ministry of Commerce.
Myanmar held a workshop for the “Potential Product (coconut) value chain” project under the ACEMES-ROK Fund at Pan Pacific Hotel on 29 May. Myanmar’s Orchard Company Limited and Vietnam’s Hoa Binh Hiep Agricultural Service Cooperative signed the MoU to provide coconut saplings and technical assistance for coconut plantations.
At the workshop, experts led by Mrs Nguyen Thi Kim Thanh, chairperson of the Vietnam Coconut Association, elaborated on coconut plantations and production methods, carbon credit and creating Macapuno – a new product.
Representatives from the Agriculture Department, Myanmar Fruit, Flower and Vegetable Producers and Exporter Association, Myanmar Coconut Producer and Trader Association attended the workshop.
The delegation led by the chairperson of the Vietnam Coconut Association, experts and attendees also went on a study tour to coconut farms in Yinkadit village, Pantanaw Township, Ayeyawady Region on 30 May. Vietnam’s delegate left for Vietnam in the evening of 30 May from the Yangon International Airport.
Under the ACEMES-ROK Fund, the “Potential Product (coconut) Value Chain” project also includes coconut handicraft courses in Ayeyawady Region between May 2023 and April 2024.
This course offered practical approaches to turning waste coconut shells into a craft that is commercially valued. The trainees learnt know-hows of choosing coconut shells, designing and cutting, polishing, drying and decorating with the use of equipment step by step. A basic drawing subject was included as well.
The trainees had to make practically coconut crafts such as lamps, DIY lamp shades, curtains, necklaces, keychains and earnings. They received a completion certificate.
The three-day coconut-based products expo and competition was held in Pathein from 22 to 24 January 2024. — NN/EM