June 28, 2025 — Myanmar’s agricultural sector has seen significant developments, ranging from large-scale crop expansion to digital innovation for smallholder farmers. Despite setbacks caused by a devastating earthquake in March, government initiatives and international aid are helping to stabilize and strengthen farming communities ahead of the monsoon season.
Monsoon Crop Expansion Underway
In Sagaing Region, township authorities are ramping up efforts to plant key monsoon crops. Kyunhla Township aims to cultivate over 11,500 acres of pigeon pea, bolstered by on-ground training in pest prevention and variety selection. Meanwhile, Chaung-U Township has already planted nearly 2,700 acres, working toward a goal of 20,300 acres this season.
Rain-fed rice cultivation is also accelerating in Htigyaing Township, where over 40,000 acres are scheduled for planting between July and September. Farmers are being supported with seed distribution and technical guidance to ensure a timely harvest.
Mechanization and Livestock Zones Take Shape
In a bid to modernize agriculture and improve food security, the government is expanding mechanized farming zones around Naypyitaw. With over 100 acres reclaimed and 170 more in preparation, these efforts aim to reduce manual labor and boost irrigation efficiency.
Simultaneously, hybrid sunflower cultivation is being promoted, alongside the development of livestock zones for pigs, broilers, and dairy cattle. These initiatives are designed to enhance domestic self-sufficiency in cooking oil and protein sources, while building capacity for future exports.
Digital Finance Boost for Smallholder Farmers
A promising new platform, MyFarmer App, has emerged as a digital bridge between smallholder farmers and individual investors. The crowd-farming tool enables individuals to invest directly in crop production, providing farmers with low-cost capital and digital record-keeping capabilities.
In its pilot phase, ten farms received an average of $250 each, yielding returns of 20–48% for backers. Farmers reported better budgeting practices and reduced reliance on high-interest informal loans, signaling a potentially transformative model for rural financing.
Pineapple Glut Hits Local Markets
Myanmar’s pineapple season has brought an abundant supply to markets, resulting in a noticeable decline in prices. While this has affected growers’ margins, it has driven a surge in consumer demand for pineapple juice and snacks, helping to balance the market.
Earthquake Impact and Emergency Response
The magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Myanmar on 28 March dealt a heavy blow to agricultural infrastructure, with some estimates predicting a reduction of up to 15% in animal feed output. Feed mills and transport routes in several productive zones were damaged, creating logistical bottlenecks.
In response, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has launched emergency support targeting 71,000 individuals affected by the disaster. The relief includes seed distribution, fertilizer assistance, cash-for-work programs, and irrigation repair, aimed at ensuring farmers can still plant in time for the monsoon.
Looking Ahead
Myanmar’s agriculture continues to evolve, adapting to natural disasters and economic shifts with both resilience and innovation. From digital platforms and mechanized farms to disaster recovery and market trends, the last five weeks reflect a sector in active transformation.
Reference: Various sources in the last 5 weeks