Avocado prices rise to record high

The prices of avocado have risen to a record due to reduced harvests from major producers, it is learnt.
The avocado is sold for K500-1500 per one depending upon the size. Last year, around 5,000-10,000 tonnes of Myanmar avocados are exported to China and Thailand annually with an order system, according to the Myanmar Avocados Producer and Exporter Association.
As avocado is perennial, the department is making efforts to grow high-quality avocado fruit in the Naga zone. Besides, Myanmar avocados of around 3,000 tonnes are consumed in the domestic market annually. The avocados are consumed more in the tour season.
There are around 25,000 acres of avocado plantations in Myanmar and they are mostly grown in Chin Mountain, Naga Mountain, Shan plateau, Nawnghkio and PyiOoLwin. There are more than a thousand Myanmar avocado species and the residents are also growing foreign avocado species. Myanmar avocados are highly harvested from October until April.
Avocado fruit has high oil content and a very nutty, rich taste. Its flesh is smooth textured and it has a thick skin casing.
The fruit ripens between September and February. The hot tropical climate and rich soil in Myanmar make it a perfect place for avocado cultivation.
The avocado was introduced into Myanmar over 70 years ago and has become a major fruit in the country. — Aye Maung/GNLM