12 March 2026 — Bitter beans in Tamu township, Sagaing Region are facing low prices and exporting their produce to India’s Moreh area at reduced rates, according to local traders.
Currently, good-quality bitter beans sell for 100–150 rupees per 100 fruits, while lower-quality produce fetches 70–80 rupees per 100 fruits. Despite the low profits, farmers continue exporting as part of their seasonal livelihood.
The initial report from Zalen states: “Prices are very low. Even poor-quality bitter beans barely earn 100 rupees per 100 fruits. Profits are small, but we still export because it is the cultivation season.”
Trade is further complicated as the Myanmar side of the border at Govajang Gate is not an official customs point. The Assam Rifles allows exports only from 8:00 am to 11:00 am, making logistics challenging for both sellers and buyers.
Earlier this year in January, bitter bean prices were higher at 500–600 rupees per 100 fruits, but since late February, prices have fallen sharply, putting pressure on local growers. – Reporting by Ben
