Agriculture Sector: Protection of Farmer Rights and Enhancement of Benefits

The (1/2026) plenary meeting of the Leading Committee for Protection of Farmer Rights and Enhancement of Their Benefits was held on July 28 at the meeting hall of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation in Nay Pyi Taw, with Vice President Daw Nan Ni Ni Aye, Head of the Leading Committee, attending and delivering opening remarks. In her address, the Vice President stated that support must be provided to secure the key requirements of agricultural and livestock farming: quality seeds, good soil, water, proper techniques, and capital. She highlighted the need to ensure farmers have access to high-quality seeds, seedlings, and fingerlings/livestock breeds, as well as fertilizers, pesticides, water resources, animal feed, veterinary medicines, and required technologies. She also emphasized coordinating suitable agricultural loans for smallholder farmers with limited capital. Furthermore, to enable every farmer to access markets, it is necessary to provide information and modern information technology regarding domestic and international markets. She noted that as Myanmar is a country rich in land and water resources among regional nations, it is now essential to utilize these assets most effectively and adapt agricultural and livestock production systems in line with evolving global food systems. Following this, Union Minister U Min Naung presented a briefing on the formation and current operational status of the Leading Committee, work committees, and working groups, along with their respective duties and responsibilities. It was followed by a round of discussions by those present on sector-wise implementation regarding the protection of farmers rights and enhancement of their benefits, and future plans. The meeting then ended with closing remarks by the Vice President.