Kant Kaw Ni Ni, Narinjara News, 13 February 2025 

After the Arakan Army's (AA) prohibition on the sale of both domestic and foreign alcohol, wine, and beer in free zones of Arakan State, the popularity of locally produced "Discovery" ginger wine has increased significantly. 

Daw Nwe Nwe, the creator of the ginger wine, remarked that market demand has been robust since its introduction in Mrauk-U Township in May 2024. 

"We produce wine together as a family. It began as a pastime—we crafted wine from marian plum and various fruits to offer to visitors when they came over. Eventually, I realized that starting a business would enable people in my community to savor high-quality, locally produced wine. That's the reason we chose to give it a go and began production," she stated. 

The popularity of ginger wine increased following the AA's total prohibition on the sale of imported alcohol, beer, and other drinks in December 2024. 

Daw Nwe Nwe mentioned that orders are currently being received from the townships of Ponnagyun, Kyauktaw, Minbya, and Myebon. 

"When we initially began making wine, the majority of our orders were from Kyauktaw. We have also recently received orders from Ponnagyun and Minbya," she explained. 

A "Discovery" ginger wine bottle is sold at a wholesale price of 10,000 kyats. 

The beverage is created using ginger, sugar, salt, and locally produced liquor, combined in equal amounts. It is available in two types: ginger and plum. 

Daw Nwe Nwe stated, "The natural ginger-colored type is better for men to consume, while the plum-hued type is slightly sweeter and more appropriate for women." 

At present, the ginger wine is undergoing testing and distribution, and a business registration application has been filed with the Arakan People's Government to obtain permission for commercial production on a larger scale. 

Daw Nwe Nwe stated, 'If we can manufacture it on a bigger scale, it will benefit local consumers and generate employment in the winemaking sector.'" 

Bottling the wine has posed a challenge, and the current production rate is restricted to only 180 bottles each month. 

On September 19, 2024, the AA released an order mandating that all alcohol, beer, and wine produced outside and within the mainland must be sold within three months, prohibiting any additional imports into Arakan State. 

After the three-month sales period, the AA's Department of Law Enforcement and Public Security (DLEPS) has commenced the search for and confiscation of liquor, beer, and other alcoholic drinks produced in the mainland. 

Following the imposition of the ban by the AA, glutinous rice wine and rice liquor have been popular in Arakan State.