Melon Value Chains for Rural Development in Burma

VCRD’s strategy in the melon value chain focuses on building efficiencies and relationships to strengthen market channels and increase incomes for melon farmers in the Central Dry Zone (CDZ). This means improving practices to increase sustainability and meet Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) criteria, reducing excessive use of pesticides, ensuring appropriate fertilizer applications and establishing sound crop rotation strategies. On the market side, the project supports the Myanmar Melon Producer and Exporter Association (MMPEA)—a nationwide melon trade/advocacy group—on initiatives including establishment of melon grades and standards to enable more consistent, fairer pricing for producers, especially for melons destined for cross-border trade. VCRD partners with a national horticulture association, the Myanmar Fruit, Flower and Vegetable Producers and Exporters Association (MFVP) through an Innovative Grant to strengthen the melon value chain and build the Association’s capacity to provide training, services and outreach.