Myanmar rice federation provides rice at reduced prices to support families

YANGON, June 26 (Xinhua) -- People are lining up at the Rice and Paddy Wholesale Depot (Wardan) in Myanmar's Yangon to purchase rice at reduced prices amid rising prices.

Hla Hla Thein, 63, said, "I came here to buy rice because it's more affordable than in the outside markets. The price difference is about 40,000 kyats (about 19.04 U.S. dollars) per rice bag of 108 lb. Buying here provides some relief, and with the extra money, we can buy oil and other kitchen essentials."

Ma Swe, 42, said, "I came here to buy rice because I heard that the rice federation distributes rice at affordable prices. By buying rice here, we save around 40,000 to 50,000 kyats (about 19.04 to 23.8 dollars) per bag compared to other markets."

Zin Phyu Soe, 26, said while queuing to buy rice, "For ordinary people like us, these reduced prices make a big difference, allowing us to buy other necessities. For our family, a rice bag is sufficient for a month. I waited for nearly two hours because it was crowded."

Under the leadership of the Myanmar Rice Federation, the Myanmar Rice and Paddy Traders' Association, the Myanmar Rice Millers Association, and the Myanmar Paddy Producers Association, rice and paddy wholesale depots have conducted a program to sell rice at reduced prices to consumers, according to the federation.

This program, which began three years ago, is conducted annually. For this year, it started on Monday and will continue until rice prices stabilize in the markets, according to the Rice and Paddy Wholesale Depot (Wardan).

Nwe Nwe Win, 44, said, "This program is currently only in Yangon. It's great for people here, but it would be best if it could reach the whole country. They use a rationing system, selling two packs per household. This ensures everyone gets a fair share and prevents hoarding. Even if you have more money, you can't buy extra, so it's balanced and avoids panic buying."

Each household is allowed to purchase two packs, one of high quality and one of regular quality, and can buy only once a month. Traders and wholesale sellers are prohibited from buying. Buyers must bring a copy of their household registration and National Registration Card, according to the Myanmar Rice Federation.■