Myanmar 4R Nutrient Stewardship Program

Myanmar’s recent economic opening has provided new opportunities also for the fertilizer industry and their supply chain partners. In this project we will conceptualize and implement a market development program for Myanmar, together with one of IPNI’s member companies. Implementation is between 2014 and 2017.

During the first two years (i.e., between 2014 and 2015) the program encompasses the production of educational 4R Nutrient Stewardship materials, conceptualize, prepare and deliver a 4R seminar series in Myanmar. Initially, the direct impact will be generated for the local business partners of IPNI member companies by developing materials that support in tandem fertilizer markets and sustainable agricultural development. Eventually, we expect our work to generate yield and income increases for farmers who deploy the 4R concepts. Furthermore, the program engagement strategy will have large-scale outreach into various commodities and engages diverse key stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

During 2014 and 2015, the program has delivered seminars to commodity industry groups and government institutions on 4R Nutrient Stewardship. The program has developed and published a successful series of field handbooks for 4R based nutrient management. To date the book series includes books for maize, sugarcane, watermelon, oil palm, table grapes, mango, and rice. For 2016 and 2017, we plan fertilizer trial work with specific key commodities in various regions of the country. Partnerships with government institutions and local fertilizer companies are being developed.

We expect this program to generate significant benefits for the farming and the agricultural business community in a country that is considered as a potential agricultural powerhouse, but where currently little information is available to realize this vision. IPNI and partners will make a difference in this ambitious process.