Growing tensions in the South China Sea in recent months is leading China to shun Vietnam for its rice imports, opening the door for Myanmar exporters. To be able to quickly reach an agreement allowing official rice exports to China, Myanmar needs to first address the problem of low productivity of high quality rice. Most of Myanmar’s official exports currently go to African countries, but they are now looking to grow market share closer to home.

World Bank economist Sergiy Zorya, said that Vietnam is a competitive exporter and China is a price-sensitive market, so “the Chinese government will think pragmatically in this regard”.