Myanmar onion prices more than double on strong export demand

• Myanmar onion prices have more than doubled to around USD 1.63 per viss on stronger export demand.
• Export-led demand supports prices, with easing expected after August.

Myanmar’s domestic onion market has witnessed a sharp price surge, with wholesale prices more than doubling in recent weeks due to strong export demand. Market participants attribute the rally primarily to increased shipments to neighbouring countries, tightening domestic availability and pushing prices to their highest levels in months.

Export demand fuels sharp price rally

According to market sources, onion exports have become the key factor supporting domestic prices. Traders indicated that demand from neighbouring markets, including Bangladesh, India and Thailand, has accelerated exports, leading to stronger competition for available supplies within Myanmar.

Onion prices have increased from USD 0.62-0.77 per viss (around 1.63 kg) to approximately USD 1.63 per viss, representing a rise of more than two times. Traders noted that, in the absence of export demand, onion prices generally remain in the range of USD 0.46-0.62 per viss.

Higher prices strain domestic consumers

The sharp increase in onion prices has raised household food expenses, as onions remain an essential ingredient in daily cooking. Consumers have reportedly reduced purchase volumes, with many buying smaller quantities than before and adjusting their food consumption to manage higher costs.

Market participants also clarified that the price increase is being driven by stronger export demand rather than speculative stockpiling. Traders noted that onions are generally not stored for long periods, and the current rally reflects increased overseas buying instead of supply hoarding.

Outlook

Market sources expect the current price strength to remain temporary, with onion prices likely to soften after August if export demand moderates and domestic market supplies improve. However, export activity will continue to be the key factor influencing Myanmar’s onion market in the near term.