Pajau Media
30th January, 2025
A resident of Putao reported that the market for grapefruit from Putao, located in Kachin State, has experienced a substantial decline in comparison to previous years, resulting in financial losses for the local community.
A regional fruit merchant indicated that while the price of an individual grapefruit varies between 1,000 and 1,500 kyats, the expenses associated with transportation and packaging from Putao to Myitkyina do not sufficiently offset the production costs and taxes incurred.
“This year, the market price for a grapefruit in Putao is less than five hundred kyats. The acquisition cost stands at three hundred kyats per grapefruit, excluding transportation and packaging expenses. Given that we need to transport the fruit to Myitkyina, we incur a tax of one hundred and fifty kyats per grapefruit during transit. Additionally, the shipping fee amounts to ten thousand five hundred kyats per bag, which is insufficient. Upon arrival in Myitkyina, sales have declined compared to previous periods, primarily due to the closure of both railway and road routes,” he stated.
The ongoing political instability has rendered trade and transportation challenging, resulting in a significant decline in the price of local grapefruit. Consequently, commercial grapefruit growers are experiencing considerable turmoil due to diminished sales.
Putao grapefruit is a fruit that serves as a popular local gift, cherished not only by tourists from various parts of the region but also by friends residing abroad. Visitors to the Putao area frequently purchase these local delicacies at the Putao Kawng Kahtawng morning market and the Lay Yin Kwin market as they prepare to return home.
The local grapefruit market has experienced a downturn for nearly two years. In 2024, the closure of the Putao-Myitkyina highway led to a suspension of grapefruit purchases. Additionally, traders have reported that the market has suffered due to exorbitant taxes, checkpoint fees, and rising transportation expenses.
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