U Aung Myint Oo, a central executive member of the Myanmar Areca Nut Entrepreneurs Association, has reported that Myanmar and India have initially agreed to export 200 tonnes of dried betel nuts from Myanmar to India each month. This agreement will remain in effect for three years.
India’s Lax Corporation Co Ltd has expressed interest in purchasing tonnes of dried betel nuts from Myanmar on a monthly basis. The two countries are currently engaged in discussions regarding the terms and conditions of export, including payment methods. In January, the Myanmar Areca Nut Entrepreneurs Association already sent a sample of dried areca nuts to Lax Corporation Co Ltd.
“Lax Corporation requested the possibility of 200-tonne monthly exports, and we agreed,” explained U Aung Myint Oo. “We have already sent a 17-tonne initial shipment in a 20-foot container. Once they confirm the quality meets their criteria, they will proceed with regular 200-tonne purchases. We will finalize the transportation details after finalizing agreements on export procedures and payment methods.”
Myanmar has an annual betel nut production of approximately 230,000 tonnes. With domestic demand met, the country aims to export the surplus production.
Across the nation, there are 253,370 acres dedicated to areca nut cultivation, yielding around 230,000 tonnes annually. Mon State is the leading producer with 56,508 acres and 90,000 tonnes, followed by Taninthayi Region with over 80,000 tonnes. — ASH/ TMT
