Myanmar Expands Coffee Exports to Boost Income

Myanmar’s coffee industry is making a move to bring more income to local farmers by stepping up exports of high-quality beans. With global demand for fresh, distinctive single-origin coffees on the rise, Myanmar sees an opportunity—not just to grow its presence in international markets, but to turn a better profit per kilo than what domestic buyers are paying.

More than 100 tons of premium coffee beans from Mandalay and Shan State are set to be shipped to Japan and other Asian countries, with a floor price of $3.5 per kilogram. That’s significantly higher than the local market rate of 3,000–3,300 kyat per kg (around $2.5).

Why Myanmar Coffee Is Heading Abroad

The Myanmar Coffee Association’s secretary, Min Latt, confirmed that the exported beans are strictly high-quality and freshly harvested. Only beans meeting those standards are approved for export. The goal is clear: earn more foreign currency and improve the livelihoods of coffee-growing communities.

Currently, Myanmar earns far more by selling abroad. While domestic prices hover near $2.5 per kg, exporters secure at least $3.5 per kg—meaning greater returns for both producers and the national economy.

Where Myanmar Coffee Is Going—and Why

Japan and South Korea are currently the primary destinations. These countries import Myanmar coffee specifically for its high quality, rich flavor, and freshness. Japanese buyers, in particular, have a long-standing preference for traceable, high-elevation coffees with clean cup profiles—a profile Myanmar’s highland farms can deliver.

Back in 2014, Myanmar exported 36 tons of coffee to Japan alone, showing early signs of what is now a more structured push into foreign markets.

Myanmar’s Coffee Growing Regions

Myanmar’s coffee cultivation is concentrated in two key regions:

• Mandalay
• Shan State (including areas historically tied to northern highland agriculture)

Combined, these areas host around 30,000 acres (approximately 12,000 hectares) of coffee trees. Most of these farms operate on smaller scales, often family-owned, and are located at elevations favorable for growing specialty-grade Arabica.

What Determines Export Quality

Not all coffee grown in Myanmar makes the export cut. Only beans that are:

• Fresh
• Free from defects
• Well-processed (details not specified in source, but implied to meet premium standards)
• Priced at a minimum of $3.5/kg

…are approved for shipment overseas. This strict selection helps maintain Myanmar’s reputation and ensures exporters receive the best possible return.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much coffee is Myanmar exporting?

Over 100 tons of high-quality coffee beans from Mandalay and Shan State are being prepared for export, mainly to Japan and other Asian countries.

What is the minimum export price for Myanmar coffee?

The floor price for exported Myanmar coffee beans is $3.5 per kilogram, which is higher than the local market rate of 3,000–3,300 kyat (about $2.5).

Which countries are buying Myanmar coffee?

Japan and South Korea are the primary importers, valuing Myanmar coffee for its quality, freshness, and strong flavor profile.

How much coffee did Myanmar previously export to Japan?

In 2014, Myanmar exported 36 tons of coffee beans to Japan, marking an early stage in its specialty coffee export development.

Where is coffee grown in Myanmar?

Coffee is primarily cultivated in Mandalay and Shan State, across roughly 30,000 acres (12,000 hectares) of highland farmland suited to Arabica production.

Why is Myanmar focusing on coffee exports?

The initiative aims to earn more foreign currency and improve the income of local coffee farmers by selling high-value beans internationally rather than domestically.

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