Burma’s Tapioca Starch Trade: Analyzing Exports, Imports, and Tariffs

Burma, a significant player in the global tapioca starch market, has experienced notable developments in both its export and import activities.

Exports

In 2021, Burma recorded tapioca starch exports worth $664k, positioning the country as the 21st largest exporter of this product globally. Tapioca starch ranked as the 632nd most exported commodity in Burma during the same year. Malaysia and China were the main destinations for Burma’s tapioca starch exports, with Malaysia accounting for the majority at $513k and China contributing $151k.

Burma experienced notable growth in its export markets for tapioca starch between 2020 and 2021. China played a significant role in this growth, with an increase of $151k in tapioca starch exports. Malaysia also demonstrated positive growth, contributing an additional $111k during the same period.

Imports

In 2021, Burma imported tapioca starch worth $2.25 million, positioning the country as the 31st largest importer of this product globally. Tapioca starch ranked as the 1032nd most imported commodity in Burma during the same year. Burma primarily imports tapioca starch from Thailand, with imports amounting to $2.25 million.

Burma’s import market for tapioca starch showed a heavy reliance on Thailand, representing the sole source of imports in significant quantities.

Tariffs

In 2015, the average tariff imposed on tapioca starch imports in Burma stood at 4.81%. Notably, Angola, Burundi, Benin, Burkina Faso, and Botswana implemented the highest import tariffs on tapioca starch, with a Most Favoured Nation duty rate treatment of 5%. These tariffs reflect the trade policies and protective measures enforced by these countries to regulate the inflow of tapioca starch imports.

Conclusion

Burma’s involvement in the tapioca starch trade highlights its active participation in the global market. The country has experienced substantial growth in its export market, with Malaysia and China emerging as significant destinations for Burma’s tapioca starch. Meanwhile, Burma’s import market primarily relies on Thailand for its tapioca starch supply. As trade policies and tariffs continue to shape the industry, stakeholders in the tapioca starch trade must remain attentive to evolving market dynamics to capitalize on opportunities and navigate challenges effectively in Burma’s dynamic market environment.

Data from BACI