Previously, this mango variety was primarily exported to international markets such as Singapore, China, and Thailand, but due to multiple factors, overseas markets have shrunk, and it can now only be exported in limited quantities to the Chinese market, with purchase volumes dependent on buyer demand, making it difficult to obtain ideal prices.
A mango plantation owner in Bandanaw Township said: "The 'Saint Dragon' mango prices are unsatisfactory, and now only the domestic market remains, naturally driving prices down. Relying solely on the domestic market is completely unprofitable, with domestic sales volumes at only about 50%."
Currently, the domestic market price of "Saint Dragon" mangoes has dropped from 65,000 to 75,000 Myanmar kyat per 16-kilogram crate to 45,000 Myanmar kyat.
A mango trader in Wakyi Township noted: "This mango requires whole-orchard contract purchasing, and market downturn has created operational difficulties, having to deal with pest damage while facing price stagnation. This season's production is barely enough to recover whole-orchard contract costs, but yields are far below previous years."
The main "Saint Dragon" mango production areas in Ayeyarwady Province include Wakyi, Pathein, Bandanaw, Dedaye, Nyaungdone, Maubin, and Zalun townships. Additionally, farmers are facing soaring feed and pesticide costs, with high cultivation investments leading to reduced fertilization and continuous decline in mango yields.