CNI News

9 November 

Salt production in the season when Nay Hlan Sar ( salt produced by drying in the sun) is produced has declined because the price of salt is falling, according to salt farmers. 

With the price of local salt falling, because salt farmers could make a loss, some salt farmers have stopped salt production. 

Moreover, because it was difficult to hire workers, the cost became higher and the price of salt was falling, salt production decreased and eight of ten Sar Phos (workplace where salt is produced) only could produce, U Hla Tin, a salt farmer, told CNI News.

" The cost is higher. It's not easy to find workers. The prices of fuel oil are higher. So, some have stopped their work. Eight of ten Sar Phos can work. This year when the price of salt was around 200 kyats per viss, all Sar Phos were able to operate. But now the price is just between 150 and 180 kyats." he said.

At present, the price of coarse salt is only 150 kyats per viss and only when the price is 200 kyats, will it be beneficial to salt farmers.

While producing salt

Salt is produced Thanbyuzayat, Yay and Paung and the salt produced in Mon State is exported to Mon, Karen States, Tanintharyi and Mandalay Regions. 

At present, because of difficult transportation and territorial instability, some manufacturing industries that use salt have suspended.

So, demand for salt declined in the salt market of Mon State and the price of salt decreased as well.

Salt is produced in Mon State from November to April. 45,000 tons of salt are produced from 4,700 acres of salt production and not only is salt sufficient for the local consumption, it can be exported and entrepreneurs are trying to export it.

If salt can be exported to the international market, not only can locals enjoy job opportunities, foreign income can also be earned.