January 22, 2025

Corn industry in Myanmar prepares to export corn to Thailand tariff-free

Myanmar's corn industry is currently making ready to export corn — with the exemption of customs tariffs — to Thailand.

Thailand gives the green light for corn imports under zero tariff during the period between February 1 and August 31. However, the country imposes a maximum tax rate of 73% on corn imports to protect the rights of their growers if corn is imported during the Thai corn season.

As such, traders are stocking corn for exports under duty exemption.

Myanmar's corn is primarily exported to the Philippines, Vietnam, and India through maritime trade. They are also sent to neighbouring countries through land borders.

Additionally, China has been purchasing Myanmar's corn through cross-border trade under an alternative development programme. Official corn trade between Myanmar and China commenced at the end of 2023. A total of 112 companies in Myanmar have been permitted for corn exports.

Myanmar exports around two million tonnes of corn. The grain is cultivated in Shan, Kachin, Kayahm, and Kayin states, and Mandalay, Sagaing, and Magway regions.

Myanmar's annual corn output is estimated at 2.5-3 million tonnes.

— NN/KK