March 7
THANAKA market has recovered in open season after the market slowdown in the previous rainy season amid the pandemic impacts, said Thanaka growers from Magway Region.
Thanaka, yellowish-white cosmetic paste made from ground bark, is a natural cosmetic in Myanmar.
Myanmar people prefer to use Thanaka as cosmetic. The collapse of Thanaka market during the COVID-19 resulted in decreasing Thanaka farms.
At present, Thanaka from Yesagyo and Pakokku townships are entering Yenangyoung market in Magway Region. The number of Thanaka vendors increase in the open season. The prices per piece of Thanaka stand at K1,500 to K8,000 depending on the size and varieties.
Additionally, the value-added Thanaka products such as Thanaka powder are also seen in the domestic market, said a seller.
“The fullmoon day of Tabodwe is designated as Myanmar Thanaka Day. After that, the number of consumers has significantly risen,” said a trader.
“Thanaka has grasped a market share in the domestic market. The neighbouring country Thailand is eyeing Thanaka powder and so, it has market potential,” said a member of Myanmar Thanaka Planters and Producers Association.
Pakokku Thanaka warehouse, Mandalay Thanaka warehouse and Ayadaw Thanaka warehouse are the main suppliers of Myanmar Thanaka, said the traders.
There are nearly 200,000 acres of Thanaka in Sagaing Region and Ayadaw Township has over 100,000 acres.—KK/ GNLM
