Introduction The threat of invasive pests entering a country through border regions is one of the most serious biosecurity risks facing agriculture today. These pests can devastate crops, disrupt ecosystems, and cripple trade. Surveillance and early detection in border areas serve as the first line of defense to stop these biological invaders before they spread … Read more
In an era of global trade and shifting climate patterns, the risk of invasive pests and plant diseases has never been higher. For Myanmar — a country rich in agricultural diversity — maintaining plant health is not only about crop productivity but also food security and export potential. At the heart of this protection system … Read more
Introduction As global trade expands, the risk of introducing pests and diseases through agricultural imports and exports increases dramatically. Pest Risk Analysis (PRA) has become an indispensable tool for National Plant Protection Organizations (NPPOs) to evaluate, manage, and mitigate pest-related threats. In the context of global biosecurity, strengthening PRA systems is critical to safeguarding ecosystems, … Read more
Ensuring the safety and quality of agricultural exports is not just about meeting international standards—it is about securing farmer livelihoods, boosting national revenue, and sustaining Myanmar’s reputation in global markets. The Plant Protection Division (PPD) under the Department of Agriculture has been at the forefront of phytosanitary measures in Myanmar, building resilient systems to prevent … Read more
Myanmar’s agriculture, the backbone of its rural economy, is increasingly under threat from a surge of emerging plant diseases. These diseases, driven by climate change, intensified trade, and evolving pathogens, jeopardize national food security and export potential. As outbreaks become more frequent and unpredictable, early detection, accurate diagnosis, and rapid response have become crucial in … Read more
In the dynamic agricultural ecosystem of the ASEAN region, the silent guardians of food security are not always the farmers or agri-tech innovations — they are the National Plant Protection Organizations (NPPOs). Tasked with a vital responsibility, NPPOs function as the frontline defense against the entry, establishment, and spread of pests that could cripple agricultural … Read more
Introduction The decentralization of plant health governance is an emerging trend in agricultural administration across many developing nations, including Myanmar. This shift involves transferring responsibilities for plant protection services from central government bodies to regional, state, and local authorities. While decentralization brings the promise of faster responses, local customization, and community engagement, it also poses … Read more
Since the 1990s, Myanmar’s approach to managing plant health and pest threats has undergone a significant transformation. From traditional, manual pest control methods to the development of structured laws, institutions, and international cooperation, the governance of plant protection has evolved in response to rising agricultural demand, climate variability, and globalization of trade. This article provides … Read more
Myanmar’s agricultural sector forms the backbone of its economy and food security system. At the heart of this sector lies the Department of Agriculture (DOA), a vast, multi-functional institution responsible for planning, regulating, and innovating across crop production, plant protection, and biosecurity. Its efficiency depends not just on its internal structure but also on interdepartmental … Read more
Introduction Plant health is a cornerstone of agricultural productivity, food security, and trade compliance. Across the ASEAN region, countries have developed specialized authorities and frameworks to monitor, manage, and mitigate pest and disease threats. While the core objectives remain aligned—protecting crops and ensuring safe trade—organizational structures, implementation models, and institutional capacities vary significantly. This article … Read more