Myanmar's Emerging Tobadee (Avocado) Industry

Abstract

Myanmar is located in Southeast Asia and is bordered by Bangladesh, China, Laos, and Thailand. The terrain varies from sea level lowlands to mountainous regions up to 5800 ft (1768 m). Seedling avocados were initially introduced to the Pyin Oo Lwin area (northeast of Mandalay) during the 1940s. Currently the major producing regions are Shan, Chin and Kaya States and the Mandalay Division; Shan State is the leading producer. During the past 10 to 15 years there has been an effort by the government and more recently by the Avocado Sector of the Myanmar Fruit, Flower, and Vegetable Producer and Exporter Association (MFFVPEA) to expand commercial production. During September-October 2014, Tropical Research and Education Center (TREC) faculty advised Winrock International [a United States Agency for the International Development (USAID)-supported non-governmental organization] on avocado production in Southern Shan State. After surveying production areas and presenting training workshops for producers, recommendations were made to improve cultural practices and manage diseases and pests. Currently, the industry is based on seedling trees with Guatemalan (G), Mexican (M), and hybrid (G X M) backgrounds. The industry has good potential to develop both internal and export markets if several constraints can be overcome. Most importantly, superior seedlings with high yields, good quality fruit and resistance to significant diseases should be selected and clonally propagated to enhance market development. A description of the status of and challenges faced by this emerging industry are discussed.