India is calling for bidders from Myanmar in a rice tender for the northeastern corner of the country, the first such large request in years, according to rice dealers.

India has long been one of the world’s largest rice exporters and a frequent competitor with Myanmar in third-country markets, but a September 19 Reuters report said a plan to broaden a railway in the northeast requires temporary rice imports.

Myanmar traders say they are keen to begin exports to India, which has seldom required rice imports, as it may lead to chances for future trade.

“It’s a good opportunity for Myanmar,” said U Chan Thar Oo, vice president of the Muse Rice Wholesale Centre. “The Myanmar rice market currently depends on China – but the more markets we have, the better.”

While Indian officials had initially targeted finishing the first tender by September 23, the process was delayed due to technical reasons, according to Indian newspaper Business Standard.

Myanmar rice traders said the country’s exporters should take advantage of its position between the world’s two most populous nations.

Although the tender is not too big, it may begin long-term relationships, said U Aung Than Htun, president of the Mandalay Rice Association.

Source:- mmtimes.com