The Coffee and Seasonal Crops Division of the Department of Agriculture plans to expand coffee plantations to 300,000 acres over the next five years, beginning in the financial year 2023-24.

U Myint Swe, Director of the division, outlined the strategy: “We aim to cultivate Arabica on 200,000 acres across four zones and Robusta on 100,000 acres across three zones.”

Arabica cultivation will cover 75,000 acres in PyinOoLwin, Nawnghkio, and Mogok; 35,000 acres in Ywangan, Pindaya, and Naungtaya; 37,000 acres in the mountain ranges of Hopong, Heho, Pinlaung, and Mene; and 53,000 acres in Kengtung, Tachilek, and eastern Shan State.

Conversely, Robusta will be cultivated across 50,000 acres in Taninthayi Region, 25,000 acres in Ayeyawady Region, and 25,000 acres in Kayin State within the specified timeframe.

Arabica thrives at higher altitudes in cooler climates, whereas Robusta is more tolerant of warmer temperatures.

The Department of Agriculture is sharing expertise, knowledge, and marketable coffee seedlings and tools to support this initiative.