The export of pulses to India was discussed during the official visit of India’s president. Myanmar used to export 90 percent of its pulses and beans to India, however, the Indian government changed its policy last year and temporarily banned imports of pulses and beans from other countries including Myanmar.
The shift in India’s policy has had a huge impact on Myanmar’s bean and pulse cultivators and traders faced difficulties as exports declined. The Ministry of Commerce said it has been in continuing discussions on a governmentto-government basis with India since the policy change.
During the visit, the implementation of the Kaladan Integrated River Basin Development Project was also discussed.
The terminal in Rakhine is expected to boost the trade between India and Myanmar and serve as a catalyst for growth in the agricultural, livestock, and SME sectors.
During the meeting, the two presidents discussed assistance in agriculture and livestock sectors, development in information and communications, assistance from India for the development of Rakhine and displaced people, repairs of earthquake hit pagodas in Bagan and the easing of visa requirements for Indian travelers. Other issues included cooperation in spreading the use of renewable energy sources such as solar power, safety in border areas, and the improvement of relations between the two countries.
