Myanmar rice prices soar as Facebook trade curbed

Rice prices in Myanmar have surged sharply amid shortages and flooding, with authorities warning traders against posting speculative rates online.

The Myanmar Rice and Paddy Traders Association said wholesale prices in Ayeyarwady Region had jumped from around 1.7 million kyats per 100 baskets to as high as 2.6 million. Retail customers are now paying 10,000 to 20,000 kyats more per sack depending on the variety.

Officials ordered depots to report all inflows and outflows, warning against hoarding and price gouging. They also cautioned that unregistered online sales could be prosecuted under the Essential Commodities and Services Law.

Floods and transport disruptions across Ayeyarwady and Sagaing have tightened supply, while panic buying has added further pressure. Retailers say they are simply explaining the reasons for the surge on social media, not speculating.

Traditionally, older rice is more expensive than newly harvested grain. This season, however, even new rice has risen by 30,000 to 40,000 kyats per sack despite weaker demand. Traders at Yangon’s Wardan depot report small retailers buying limited quantities, yet prices continue to climb.

Those holding stockpiles face losses if they comply with fixed‑price rules enforced by the association. Meanwhile, consumers already struggling with inflation are bearing the brunt of the crisis.

The clampdown on Facebook trade reflects the regime’s attempt to control information and stabilise markets, but with supplies dwindling and demand rising, rice remains at the centre of Myanmar’s economic strain.

-2026-09-10