Hnin Nwe Ni, Narinjara News, 13 December 2024

Due to the military government's prohibition on importing products, such as fertilizers, from the mainland to Arakan State, SAP compound fertilizer—created by Arakanese specialists for winter crops—has achieved notable success. The fertilizer, recognized for its suitability with Arakan’s soil and water, has seen a significant increase in demand.

A producer of SAP compound fertilizer informed Narinjara News that the extensive utilization of the product is causing a disparity between production and demand.

"We are utilizing and fixing old machines, but when they malfunction, we are unable to meet orders. New machinery is limited in Arakan State, and spare parts are costly,” stated the manufacturer.

Farmers in Arakan State primarily cultivate winter crops including eggplants, beans, tomatoes, chilies, corn, peanuts, okra, carrots, and watermelons. A woman cultivating winter crops in the Lay Myo Creek region states that this year's crop yield surpasses that of last year.

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"Due to the unavailability of fruits and vegetables from mainland Myanmar, the majority are now cultivated in our state. Fertilizers sourced from the mainland are priced at approximately 700,000 to 800,000 Kyats per bag, making them unaffordable for us. The fertilizers made in Arakan State are approximately half the price, and the crops are equally productive,” she stated.

SAP compound fertilizer is now being offered to retailers at a wholesale cost of 380,000 Kyats for a 50-kilogram bag and 190,000 Kyats for a 25-kilogram bag.

"Currently, SAP compound fertilizers are recognized and reliable. We also create top-quality products. The elevated prices are a result of the expense of raw materials. If the costs of raw materials were lower, the prices would decrease as well," the manufacturer stated.

Currently, sales agents and farmers in Kyauktaw, Mrauk-U, Minbya, and Myebon are buying and utilizing SAP compound fertilizer.

Nonetheless, the manufacturer indicated that supplying other townships is unfeasible because of issues with phone lines, internet access, and restricted production capacity.

"Residents of Ponnagyun and Rathedaung are still not acquainted with SAP compound fertilizers. Our output is unable to satisfy the demand. Even if we attempt to boost production, the equipment is inadequate. In Rathedaung, advertising has not occurred so far. Travel is challenging, which is why we haven't managed to go there,” the manufacturer explained.

Prior to the production of SAP compound fertilizer, natural fertilizer was produced first, and it continues to be sold today.

The producer specified that the present SAP compound fertilizer is meant exclusively for winter crops. Nevertheless, fertilizer for rice farming is being produced ahead of the approaching monsoon season.

SAP compound fertilizer can be obtained by purchasing from sales representatives located in the townships of Kyauktaw, Mrauk-U, Minbya, and Myebon.

Since the renewed conflicts in Arakan State started in November 2023, the junta has shut off all land and water routes, resulting in skyrocketing prices for food, consumer items, fuel, and farming fertilizers, aggravating the suffering of the local residents.

Farmers are thrilled that the Arakanese can now manufacture fertilizers, an essential resource in Arakan State, viewing it as a major enhancement to the agricultural sector.