The Union Minister for Commerce said during the coordination meeting on increasing crop production on 12 September that due to the possibility of El Nino weather, it is necessary to prepare the conditions for the self-sufficiency of crops and the ability to export them.
First of all, he stated that this year is likely to be the strongest El Nino, and the world’s meteorologists have predicted that southern ASEAN countries will be mainly affected, and Myanmar is also the target.
He pointed out that many other countries are in a position to be able to buy and collect crops, and he wants associations to constantly study the market situation and cooperate for the benefit of all.
The Union minister added that the farmers are requested to send a report once every two weeks to the relevant departments on the ground conditions of the production of crops and the ability to export them.
He remarked that entrepreneurs need to know the market situation and provide support methods and suggestions, not only the desire to make a profit in exporting but also the stability of the market and trade to maintain international friendship.
UMFCCI President U Aye Win said that it is important to achieve balanced interests through negotiation.
Concerning the El Nino phenomenon occurring in the Pacific Ocean, a strong El Nino condition may be reached in September, and rainfall patterns will be abnormal resulting in high temperatures and storms according to the forecast of the International Meteorological Centre.
Afterwards, U Tun Lwin, chairman of Myanmar Pulses, Beans and Sesame Seeds Merchomts Association, presented and discussed the status of the Phytosanitary Certificate applications submitted by the export companies to the Plant Protection Division. — TWA/KZL
