250-tonne soft-shell crabs from Ayeyawady’s Labutta exported annually

Nearly 250 tonnes of soft-shell crabs from farms in Labutta Township, Ayeyawady Region, are exported to international markets every year, and the number of entrepreneurs involved in soft-shell crab farming has increased in the township, according to a local businessman.
“Currently, there are a growing number of individuals engaging in soft-shell crab farming. Those who have been in this business for some time are now increasing their crab production, as the demands both domestically and internationally are rising. The domestic market for soft-shell crabs is robust, with significant exports to Thailand and Singapore. The largest cold storage facilities in Labutta Township exports 250 tonnes per annum,” said U Htay Kyaw, an owner who operates soft-shell crab farms in Labutta Township.
In 2023, only 37 individuals were involved in soft-shell crab farming in Labutta Township but now, the number has increased to 55. Soft-shell crabs produced in Labutta Township are exported through Yangon to Thailand, Singapore, and European countries. Demand is on the rise, according to the farms.
In the Ayeyawady Region, the townships of Pyapon, Dedaye, Labutta, Hainggyikyun, Bogale, and Amar produce soft-shell crabs. Generally, a single businessperson operates about 15 soft-shell crab farms. Each farm requires a minimum of 20 to 30 workers to operate. — ASH/ TMT