Bio-based value chain analysis for sustainable mangrove restoration in Ayeyarwady delta

Source: MIMU

The mangrove forests of the Ayeyarwady Delta have sustained one of the highest deforestation rates in Myanmar. The cause of this loss has been primarily anthropogenic in nature, including agricultural land expansion and the harvesting of wood for fuel and construction purposes. The effects of deforestation have negatively affected the stock of natural resources in the Delta. They have also resulted in lowering the capacity of mangrove forests to effectively act as a buffer against waves and storms surges.

For this, the Government of Myanmar has set the objective to increase the resilience of mangroves and coastal communities. Unfortunately, mangrove forest conservation efforts in Myanmar face barriers such as weak governance, lack of technical capacity and lack of financial resources.

This work analyzes two bio-based value chains: hard-shell mud crab and dried food products. It maps the functional value chain activities; identifies the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats; and assesses various financial models which support recommendations for improvements in the selected value chains.