1 Development of Producer Cluster

As far as the Development of Farmer Clusters (1) are concerned, MFVP Head Office facilitates local farmer groups to set -up and develop formal product clusters in order to overcome limited, unregularly and inconsistent qualities of selected commodities. Throughout the country MFVP has developed 35 product clusters covering a high diversity of produce from melons, pomelo and mango to flowers. Among them, a group of strong commodity closers was able to support them to stand as a national-level association.

2 Capacity Building of Farmers and other Chain Actors

In regard to Capacity Building of Farmers and other Chain Actors (2), MFVP organizes a wide range of training courses according to the needs of its members. In the past ten years specific courses have been implemented dealing with integrated pest management, irrigation, soil management, pruning techniques, bagging, post-harvest treatment, Food Safety Awareness such us Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), organic production and alike. Study trips, experience exchange, and fruits festivals have been facilitated, to encourage learning among all partners in the value chain and disseminate knowledge on good practices of product handling throughout the supply chain.

3 Marketing Support and Business Linkages

In terms of Marketing Support and Business Linkages (3), MFVP Head Office operates a marketing platform within the Wholesale Market Thirimingala, where members of the association can rent a stall on a daily base to sell their products to Yangon’s retailers and consumers. There are in total 80 stalls, which are operated 24 hours per day. Moreover, MFVP collects demand driven information (i.e. prices, markets, trends) and shares it among its members. MFVP also facilitates matches between foreign buyers and its members.