Khit/ Saw (NSS)- Jan 11

According to information from a merchant in the coconut shell charcoal market, there is an import market for coconut shell charcoal in China from Myanmar, primarily for carbon production.

According to the information, once coconut shells are baked to produce charcoal, Myanmar exports them to China through Mandalay. 

"China doesn't purchase directly from us; instead, brokers acquire coconut shells from our market. Subsequently, they bake and export the charcoal to China through Mandalay. They procure and collect as much as we supply. From what I've gathered, China requires coconut shell charcoal for carbon production. They buy from us all that we can supply, but we're unable to meet their demand," explained U Than Sin, a merchant at the coconut market in Pathein Township, to NP News.

Locally, the market price for coconut shell charcoal is around 2,000 kyats per viss.

"The shells are burned, producing smoke. Once the smoke ceases, flames emerge, and additional shells are added. After confirming it's satisfactory, we extinguish the fire. Subsequently, the shells are cooled down until the next day. Following this process, we obtain the desired charcoal. They purchase shells by the viss, priced at 2,000 kyats per viss. We are unaware of the resale price in their market," he added.

Currently, the price of coconuts is increasing at a rate of 1,000 kyats each, and the demand is also on the rise.