S'pore could import more food from Myanmar: Khaw

SINGAPORE - Singaporeans could see more vegetables and seafood from Myanmar, as the Republic continues to diversify its food sources.

In a blog post published yesterday, National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan said his ministry works closely with Singapore's food industry to diversify food sources.

"We are particularly hopeful of Myanmar becoming a good food source for us. It is nearby and a fertile country. It used to be a major rice exporter in the past," he said. "One possible item is vegetables. Already, some traders in the delegation are keen to bring in chillies, to test our local market's reception."

The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) will facilitate partnerships between Singaporean farmers and Myanmar supply chain partners, he added. Another potential item is seafood as the Myanmar seafood sector is well-developed.

Mr Khaw said while there are some concerns about the lack of suitable infrastructure, Myanmar "holds a lot of promise".

"Through more exchanges and transfer of technical expertise from AVA, I believe Myanmar farmers will, over time, be able to increase their food exports to Singapore," he said. "Our traders can also help support technology transfers to achieve win-win outcomes." CHANNEL NEWSASIA